Herb-Roasted Chicken with Vegetables

This roasted chicken dish, infused with aromatic herbs and surrounded by tender vegetables, makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal. The whole chicken is generously seasoned with a blend of spices and fresh lemon juice, giving it a delightful tang. Roasted alongside sweet potatoes, carrots, and a spicy chili pepper, this dish offers a delicious balance of flavors. The slow roasting process allows the chicken to soak up all these wonderful elements, resulting in a juicy and tender texture. The addition of garlic and rosemary further enhances the overall taste. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s straightforward to prepare and will make your home smell irresistible as it bakes. Pair it with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s a versatile recipe that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken
• 2 carrots
• 1 sweet potato
• 1 onion
• 1 lemon
• 1 chili pepper
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 2 teaspoons of mustard
• 1 teaspoon of brown sugar
• Olive oil

Spices

• 1 teaspoon of black peppercorns
• 1 pinch of cumin seeds
• Salt to taste
• Vegetables seasoning of choice
• 1 rosemary sprig
• 1 broth jelly cube

Preparation Time

Total: 80 minutes

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit).

2. Prepare the Marinade: In a mortar and pestle, crush the black peppercorns, garlic, salt, and cumin seeds. Mix in the mustard, olive oil, half a lemon's juice, and brown sugar.

3. Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken in half along the back. Rub the marinade thoroughly over the chicken pieces, ensuring it's well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to soak in the flavors.

4. Chop the Vegetables: Peel and chop the carrots, sweet potato, onion, and half a lemon into desired sizes. Slice the chili pepper.

5. Season the Vegetables: Combine the chopped vegetables with your choice of seasoning.

6. Prepare for Roasting: Place the vegetables in a roasting pan. Dissolve the broth jelly cube in a glass of warm water and pour over the vegetables. Add the rosemary sprig on top.

7. Roast the Chicken and Vegetables: Place the marinated chicken over the vegetables. Cover with a lid or foil and put it in the oven.

8. Cooking Time: Roast for approximately 1 hour.

9. Check During Cooking: Occasionally check the moisture level in the roasting pan. Add a little water if necessary to prevent drying out.

10. Final Touches: About 10 minutes before the end of the cooking time, remove the foil or lid to allow the chicken to brown nicely. If desired, you can add a dab of cream on top for a richer flavor.

Tips

• Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before carving to keep it juicy.
• Substitutions: For a milder flavor, omit the chili pepper. Substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes if needed.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as thyme or oregano for varied flavors.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approx. 450 per serving
• Protein: 40g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbs: 15g

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add more chili or use hot mustard for extra heat.
• Vegan Version: Replace the chicken with large mushrooms or eggplants and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad.
• Serve alongside a slice of crusty bread.
• Complement with a glass of white wine like Chardonnay.

Best Places

1. The Chicken House - Known for its tender and delicious roast dishes. Location: 123 Cluck Lane, London, UK.
2. Café Poulet - Offers a cozy atmosphere with a special twist on classic chicken recipes. Location: 45 Rue des Poules, Paris, France.
3. Roast & Toast - Famous for their farm-to-table ingredients and innovative flavors. Location: 567 Olive Ave, San Francisco, USA.
4. Gallo's Bistro - A must-visit for herb-infused chicken dishes. Location: 321 Birdie Dr, Rome, Italy.
5. Pollo Plaza - Celebrated for their flavorful and crispy skin roasts. Location: 100 Piedras Street, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
6. Chukkar Eats - Offers a unique combination of spices and herbs. Location: 89 Roast Road, Sydney, Australia.
7. Le Coq Rôti - A standout place for traditionally prepared roast chicken. Location: 77 Rue de la Coquille, Montreal, Canada.
8. Fried & True - A perfect place for exploring creative chicken recipes. Location: 101 Hens Way, Cape Town, South Africa.
9. Birdhouse Café - Offers delightful flavors with a local touch. Location: 22 Feather Street, Tokyo, Japan.
10. Hen Haven - Known for its comfort food and homely vibes. Location: 50 Farm Lane, Dublin, Ireland.