Roasted Chicken With Potatoes And Carrots
Highlighted under: Comfort Classics
I’ve always loved the simplicity and comfort of a roasted chicken dinner, especially when paired with potatoes and carrots. This dish is my go-to for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. The juicy chicken complements the tender, flavorful vegetables, making each bite a delightful experience. I enjoy how the aromatic herbs and spices fill my kitchen with a mouthwatering fragrance, making it impossible to resist. Getting that golden skin is my secret aim, and I’m excited to share this with you!
Preparing the roasted chicken with potatoes and carrots has been a cherished tradition in my home, especially during family gatherings. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to bring everyone together around the table, enjoying not just the meal, but also creating lasting memories. I love using fresh herbs, as they elevate the flavors to a whole new level.
One tip I found particularly useful is to start with room-temperature chicken. It ensures even cooking and helps achieve that crispy skin we all crave. I like to coat everything in olive oil and season generously. The result? A beautifully golden appearance and succulent meat that practically falls off the bone!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly roasted chicken with crispy skin
- Flavorful, tender potatoes and carrots that soak up the juices
- Easy to prepare and great for family dinners
The Art of Roasting Chicken
Achieving a perfectly roasted chicken is all about balance. By starting at a high temperature of 425°F (220°C), the chicken's skin crisps up beautifully while the inside remains juicy. Make sure to pat the chicken dry; moisture will hinder the browning process. To ensure even cooking, consider trussing the chicken by tying the legs together. This not only enhances cooking but also contributes to that appealing presentation once carved.
Don't overlook the importance of seasoning. The combination of garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary offers classic flavors that complement the chicken perfectly. I personally prefer to let the seasoned chicken sit for about 30 minutes before roasting. This allows the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. If you're in a hurry, just remember to rub the seasoning generously over the skin and inside the cavity for the best results.
Perfectly Roasted Vegetables
Potatoes and carrots are fantastic partners for roasted chicken, absorbing all the delicious juices while developing a tender texture. Cutting the potatoes into similar-sized chunks ensures they cook evenly. If you allow them to marinate in olive oil, salt, and pepper for about 15 minutes before roasting, their flavor intensifies. You can even add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of paprika for a hint of sweetness and complexity.
When roasting, it's crucial to spread the vegetables out evenly around the chicken. They should not be overcrowded to avoid steaming; instead, they need space to caramelize beautifully. Look for them to become golden and slightly crisp on the edges after about 45-50 minutes in the oven. If they seem to be cooking too fast or browning too much, cover them loosely with foil until the chicken is ready.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Roasted Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 lemon, halved
For the Vegetables
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
Steps
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary. Stuff the lemon halves inside the cavity.
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes and carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Roast the Chicken
Place the chicken breast-side up in the center of the roasting pan. Surround it with the seasoned vegetables. Roast for about 60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables.
Pro Tips
- For the best crispy skin, make sure the chicken is thoroughly dry before seasoning. Letting it sit outside the fridge for about 30 minutes beforehand can help bring it to room temperature.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This roasted chicken dish is excellent for meal prep. You can roast it on a Sunday for a hearty week of lunches or dinners. Once cooked, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, ensuring the chicken stays moist. If you would like to freeze it, wait until the chicken cools completely, then wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
For variation, consider shredding leftover chicken for salads or sandwiches. The roasted vegetables also make a great addition to soups when pureed. To keep things interesting over the week, swap in seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the roasted chicken with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a festive touch, consider adding a side of cranberry sauce or a savory gravy made from the pan drippings. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate the dish aesthetic and flavor-wise.
If you're aiming for a finer dining experience, pair this meal with a glass of white wine, like Chardonnay, which enhances the rich flavors of the roasted chicken and vegetables. For a family-style dinner, bring the entire roasting pan to the table for a rustic presentation and let everyone help themselves. It creates a wonderful communal atmosphere.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?
While you can, the skin helps to keep the meat moist and adds flavor. Skinless cuts may not yield the same results.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add other vegetables like Brussels sprouts, onions, or parsnips for added flavor and nutrition.
→ Can I prepare this in advance?
You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a day ahead. Just store them in the fridge until you're ready to roast.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Cool the leftovers to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Roasted Chicken With Potatoes And Carrots
I’ve always loved the simplicity and comfort of a roasted chicken dinner, especially when paired with potatoes and carrots. This dish is my go-to for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. The juicy chicken complements the tender, flavorful vegetables, making each bite a delightful experience. I enjoy how the aromatic herbs and spices fill my kitchen with a mouthwatering fragrance, making it impossible to resist. Getting that golden skin is my secret aim, and I’m excited to share this with you!
Created by: Stella Cameron
Recipe Type: Comfort Classics
Skill Level: Basic
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Roasted Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1 lemon, halved
For the Vegetables
- 4 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub it all over with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary. Stuff the lemon halves inside the cavity.
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes and carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
Place the chicken breast-side up in the center of the roasting pan. Surround it with the seasoned vegetables. Roast for about 60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with the roasted vegetables.
Extra Tips
- For the best crispy skin, make sure the chicken is thoroughly dry before seasoning. Letting it sit outside the fridge for about 30 minutes beforehand can help bring it to room temperature.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
- Sodium: 230mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g