Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes

Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for any family dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken leg quarters with Yukon Gold potatoes, all roasted together with butter, garlic, and a touch of maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. The unpeeled garlic cloves infuse the chicken and potatoes with a rich, savory flavor, creating a meal that is as comforting as it is flavorful. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to make Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes step-by-step.

Ingredients

• 1/4 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
• 1/4 cup maple syrup

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Ingredients

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Chicken and Potatoes:
   • Split the chicken leg quarters into drumsticks and thighs if not already done. Pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the Yukon Gold potatoes into large chunks. Ensure the garlic cloves are unpeeled.

Step 2: Season and Arrange

1. Season Chicken:
   • Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and ground black pepper on both sides.
2. Melt Butter:
   • In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Brush the melted butter all over the chicken pieces and drizzle any remaining butter over the potatoes.
3. Arrange in Baking Dish:
   • In a large roasting pan or baking dish, arrange the chicken pieces in a single layer, skin side up. Scatter the potato chunks and unpeeled garlic cloves around the chicken.
4. Drizzle Maple Syrup:
   • Drizzle the maple syrup over the chicken pieces and potatoes. This will add a slight sweetness and help with caramelization during roasting.

Step 3: Roast the Chicken and Potatoes

1. Roast:
   • Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast for 45-55 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C) and the potatoes are tender and golden brown.
2. Baste Occasionally:
   • Occasionally baste the chicken and potatoes with the pan juices to keep them moist and flavorful. You can use a spoon or baster for this.
3. Check Doneness:
   • If the chicken skin is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil for the remaining cooking time. Ensure the potatoes are fork-tender and the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Step 4: Serve

1. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Remove the roasting pan from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Transfer the chicken, potatoes, and garlic to a serving platter. Serve hot, and enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal!

Cooking Notes and Tips

• Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness. If using salted butter, adjust the amount of added salt accordingly.
• Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture, but you can use russet or red potatoes if desired.
• Garlic: Roasting the garlic unpeeled allows it to infuse the dish with a mellow, sweet flavor. Diners can squeeze the roasted garlic out of the peel and spread it on the chicken or potatoes.

Variations

Herb Roasted Chicken and Potatoes

• Add Herbs:
  • Sprinkle fresh or dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano over the chicken and potatoes before roasting for added flavor.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes

• Add Lemon:
  • Add thin slices of lemon to the roasting pan and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and potatoes before roasting for a bright, citrusy flavor.

Spicy Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes

• Add Spice:
  • Sprinkle red pepper flakes or smoked paprika over the chicken and potatoes for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

With Vegetables

• With Roasted Vegetables:
  • Serve alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for a complete meal.
• With Salad:
  • Pair with a fresh green salad or a tangy coleslaw for a light contrast.

With Bread

• With Crusty Bread:
  • Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful pan juices.
• With Garlic Bread:
  • Pair with garlic bread for an extra garlicky delight.

Beverages

• With Red Wine:
  • Enjoy with a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, for a classic pairing.
• With Iced Tea:
  • Serve with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other cuts of chicken? A: Yes, you can use other cuts such as chicken thighs or drumsticks. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover chicken and potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare and season the chicken and potatoes ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready to serve.

Q: Can I add other vegetables? A: Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or onions to the roasting pan. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

Q: Can I use maple syrup alternatives? A: Yes, you can use honey or brown sugar as alternatives to maple syrup for a similar sweetness.

Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes is a savory and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, golden potatoes, and rich garlic flavor, this dish is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this meal is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes with your family and friends!