Festive Roasted Chicken with Herbs and Melted Cheese

This dish is a delightful holiday meal that combines tender chicken with a flavorful blend of fresh vegetables, herbs, and creamy melted cheese. The chicken is stuffed with a mix of bell peppers, tomatoes, dill, and green onions, creating a vibrant and aromatic filling. The cheesy goodness of melted cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the stuffing. After the chicken is filled, it is marinated with mayonnaise, salt, and pepper, giving it a savory crust when roasted. The result is a beautifully golden chicken with a juicy and flavorful inside. With every bite, you'll experience the melded tastes of the melted cheese and fresh greens. It's perfect for special occasions or any time you crave a hearty, delicious meal. Pair it with your favorite sides for an unforgettable dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 Fresh chicken
• 2 Bell peppers
• 2 Tomatoes
• Fresh dill (to taste)
• Green onions (to taste)
• 200 g Classic melted cheese
• Mayonnaise

Spices

• Garlic (to taste)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Additional spices (to taste)

Preparation Time

80 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by thoroughly washing the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Chop Vegetables: Dice the bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, dill, and green onions into small pieces.
3. Mix Stuffing: In a large bowl, combine the chopped vegetables with the melted cheese. Mix until the cheese is evenly distributed.
4. Stuff the Chicken: Carefully fill the chicken cavity with the vegetable and cheese mixture. Ensure it's well-packed but not overstuffed.
5. Season the Chicken: Rub the outside of the chicken with mayonnaise, then evenly sprinkle salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like.
6. Marinate: Allow the seasoned chicken to rest for approximately 20 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
7. Prepare Baking Dish: In a roasting pan, add half a cup of water. This helps keep the chicken moist during roasting.
8. Add Spices to Water: Stir in any favorite spices to the water in the pan for added flavor.
9. Place the Chicken: Set the stuffed chicken into the pan, ensuring it's secure and stable.
10. Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 190 degrees Celsius (approx. 374 degrees Fahrenheit).
11. Roast the Chicken: Place the pan in the middle of the oven. Roast the chicken for about one hour or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
12. Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of at least 75 degrees Celsius (165 degrees Fahrenheit).
13. Baste Occasionally: If the chicken appears dry, occasionally baste it with the juices from the pan during roasting.
14. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
15. Carve Carefully: Use a sharp knife to carve the chicken and ensure each piece has some of the delicious stuffing inside.
16. Plate the Chicken: Arrange the carved pieces attractively on a serving platter.
17. Garnish and Serve: For a festive touch, garnish with fresh herbs or any leftover stuffing mix.
18. Pair with Sides: Consider serving with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
19. Save the Juices: Incorporate the flavorful juices from the pan as a light gravy or a dressing over the chicken.
20. Enjoy: Invite your guests to indulge in this festive creation.

Tips

• Basting: Regularly basting the chicken can help prevent it from drying out during cooking.
• Substitutions: Feel free to use any type of cheese or vegetables you prefer.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried ones if necessary.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
• Protein: 20 g
• Fats: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g

Variations

• For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with large bell peppers or zucchinis as a base for stuffing.
• Dairy-free: Use a vegan cheese substitute to cater to dairy-free diets.
• Spicier Version: Add chopped jalapeños into the stuffing for a hint of heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
• Garnishes: Fresh dill or parsley can enhance the presentation.
• Beverages: A chilled white wine or a sparkling cider complements the dish beautifully.

Best Places

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2. Osteria Francescana - Known for innovative Italian cuisine. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.
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8. Le Bernardin - Specializes in seafood with a French flair. Location: 155 W 51st St, New York, USA.
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10. Quintonil - Marries contemporary ingredients with Mexican heritage. Location: Av. Isaac Newton 55, Mexico City, Mexico.