Welcome to our hearty meals section! Today, we’re sharing a delicious and comforting recipe for Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes. This dish features tender chicken leg quarters, Yukon Gold potatoes, and plenty of garlic, all roasted to perfection with a touch of maple syrup. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- ¼ cup butter
- 6 chicken leg quarters, split into drumsticks and thighs
- 6 large Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into chunks
- 24 cloves garlic, unpeeled
- Salt and ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup maple syrup
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken and Potatoes
- Season Chicken: Place the chicken leg quarters in a large roasting pan. Season generously with salt and ground black pepper.
- Add Potatoes and Garlic: Arrange the potato chunks and unpeeled garlic cloves around the chicken in the roasting pan.
Step 3: Combine and Roast
- Add Butter and Maple Syrup: Drizzle the melted butter and maple syrup evenly over the chicken, potatoes, and garlic. Toss the potatoes and garlic to coat them evenly.
- Roast in Oven: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven. Roast for 45-55 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are golden and tender. Baste the chicken and potatoes with the pan juices halfway through the roasting time.
Step 4: Serve
- Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The potatoes should be fork-tender and the garlic should be soft.
- Serve Hot: Transfer the roasted chicken and potatoes to a serving platter. Serve hot, with the roasted garlic cloves for added flavor. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Garlic: Roasting the garlic unpeeled allows it to become sweet and creamy. Squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skin and spread it on the chicken or potatoes for extra flavor.
- Potato Choice: Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for roasting due to their buttery texture and golden color. You can substitute with other roasting potatoes if needed.
- Basting: Basting the chicken and potatoes with the pan juices during roasting helps to keep them moist and flavorful.
Variations
Herb Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
Add fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the roasting pan for an aromatic twist.
Spicy Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
Sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of crushed red pepper flakes over the chicken and potatoes for a spicy kick.
Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
Add the juice and zest of one lemon to the butter mixture for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
Honey Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes
Replace the maple syrup with honey for a different sweet and savory combination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as chicken thighs, drumsticks, or even a whole chicken. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the dish up to the point of roasting, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bring to room temperature before roasting.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Basting the chicken with the pan juices during roasting helps keep it moist. You can also cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil for the first 30 minutes of roasting and then remove it to allow the chicken to brown.
This Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, golden potatoes, and flavorful roasted garlic, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!
