Chicken with roasted garlic potatoes is a timeless, comforting dish that brings together the savory flavors of tender, juicy chicken and crispy, aromatic roasted potatoes. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a weeknight meal. Originating from the simple yet flavorful traditions of rustic cooking, this dish highlights the natural goodness of the ingredients, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. The combination of roasted garlic and potatoes with succulent chicken creates a meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs or breasts (bone-in, skin-on for best results)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Roasted Garlic Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
- 1 whole garlic bulb, cloves separated and peeled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Optional Vegetables:
- 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 1 large onion, sliced into thick rings
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken:
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks evenly and the potatoes get a nice, crispy exterior.
- Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and garlic powder. Rub this mixture all over the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well-coated. This seasoning blend will give the chicken a rich, savory flavor and help to crisp up the skin.
- Prepare the Roasting Pan: Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces on one side of a large roasting pan. Leave space for the potatoes and optional vegetables.
Preparing the Roasted Garlic Potatoes:
- Boil the Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato wedges and boil for 5-7 minutes until they are just beginning to soften. This step helps ensure the potatoes will be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside when roasted.
- Season the Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the garlic cloves, olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, and oregano. Toss everything together until the potatoes and garlic are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Roast the Potatoes: Arrange the potatoes and garlic on the other side of the roasting pan. If you’re using carrots and onions, arrange them around the chicken and potatoes.
Cooking the Dish:
- Roast Everything Together: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven. Roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to turn the potatoes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
Tips and Variations
- Avoid Burning the Garlic: To prevent the garlic from burning, you can wrap the garlic cloves in a small piece of aluminum foil before roasting. This will protect them from direct heat and ensure they become soft and sweet.
- Cooking Chicken Breasts: If you’re using chicken breasts instead of thighs, check them for doneness after 30-35 minutes. Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked, so it’s important to monitor their internal temperature closely.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance this dish by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts. These can be added to the roasting pan alongside the potatoes.
- Use Whole Roasted Chicken: For a more traditional approach, you can use a whole chicken instead of chicken pieces. Simply stuff the cavity with garlic and herbs, and adjust the cooking time to about 1 hour 15 minutes for a 4-pound bird.
- Different Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. For a more Mediterranean flavor, try adding lemon zest and fresh parsley. For a more robust, smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika and cumin.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
This Chicken with Roasted Garlic Potatoes recipe is a delightful combination of tender, juicy chicken and crispy, flavorful potatoes. The addition of roasted garlic elevates the dish, adding a sweet and savory note that complements the chicken perfectly. Whether you’re preparing this meal for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Don’t forget to try some of the variations suggested above, and feel free to share your own twists on the recipe in the comments. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore more delicious dishes on easycrispyrecipes.com and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates.