Roasted Chicken and Potatoes is a timeless dish that brings together the comforting flavors of tender chicken and crispy, golden potatoes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe is simple to prepare yet delivers a meal full of flavor and satisfaction. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a wholesome, hearty meal that your family and friends will love.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: Serves 4-6 people
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
- 1 pound baby potatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or rosemary sprigs
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A properly heated oven ensures even cooking and perfectly roasted chicken and potatoes.
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the chicken pieces under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. For the potatoes, wash them thoroughly and cut them in half. If the potatoes are particularly large, you can quarter them for quicker cooking.
- Season the Chicken and Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces and halved potatoes. Drizzle the olive oil over the top and toss to coat everything evenly.
- Add the Spices: Sprinkle the dried oregano, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the chicken and potatoes. Toss again to ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Arrange in a Baking Dish: Place the seasoned chicken pieces and potatoes in a large baking dish or roasting pan. Make sure the chicken is skin-side up for a crispy finish. Spread the potatoes around the chicken to allow for even cooking.
- Roast in the Oven: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and roast for 45-50 minutes. To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (75°C). Stir the potatoes halfway through cooking to achieve an even golden-brown crisp.
- Broil for a Crispy Finish (Optional): For extra crispy chicken skin and potatoes, turn on the broiler for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or rosemary sprigs if desired. Serve the roasted chicken and potatoes hot, paired with a side of salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
This Roasted Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a versatile and comforting dish that caters to a variety of occasions. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of crispy, golden potatoes and juicy, well-seasoned chicken creates a satisfying balance of textures and flavors. Plus, the minimal cleanup and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy evenings. Try this classic dish tonight and savor the delightful simplicity of homemade comfort food.