This recipe for a whole chicken is a game-changer! The combination of aromatic vegetables, rich butter, and a flavorful sauce will make this dish a hit at your table. This method of cooking chicken results in a tender, juicy bird that’s full of flavor and sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- Whole chicken: 1 piece
- Garlic: 5 cloves, minced
- Onion: 1, chopped
- Red bell pepper: 1, chopped
- Lemon juice: 15 ml (0.5 fl oz)
- Butter: 50 g (1.8 oz), softened
- Red onion: 1, chopped
For the Sauce:
- Melted butter: 30 g (1.1 oz)
- Honey: 20 g (0.7 oz)
- Ketchup: 30 g (1.1 oz)
- Mustard: 20 g (0.7 oz)
- Soy sauce: 15 ml (0.5 fl oz)
- Parsley: 15 g (0.5 oz), finely chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, chopped onion, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped red onion.
- Stuff this mixture into the cavity of the chicken.
- Rub the outside of the chicken with 50 g of softened butter and drizzle the 15 ml of lemon juice over the top.
- Roast the chicken:
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the juices run clear. Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 20 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
- Make the sauce:
- While the chicken is roasting, prepare the sauce by combining 30 g of melted butter, 20 g of honey, 30 g of ketchup, 20 g of mustard, and 15 ml of soy sauce in a small saucepan.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sauce is smooth and well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped 15 g of parsley.
Step 3: Finish the Chicken
- Glaze the chicken:
- After the chicken has roasted for about 1 hour, remove it from the oven and brush it generously with the prepared sauce.
- Return the chicken to the oven and continue roasting for an additional 20 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy.
- Rest the chicken:
- Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful chicken.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Carve the chicken:
- Carve the chicken into pieces and serve hot, with the remaining sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
- Garnish:
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley if desired, and serve alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Cook’s Notes
- Stuffing Options: Feel free to add other aromatic herbs like thyme or rosemary inside the chicken cavity for additional flavor.
- Spice It Up: For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the sauce.
Variations
Lemon Herb Chicken
Replace the sauce with a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a fresh, zesty flavor.
BBQ Chicken
Use your favorite BBQ sauce instead of the honey-mustard sauce for a smoky, tangy twist.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and sprinkle with extra cheese before serving for a rich, savory flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different part of the chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of a whole chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat before using.
4. What sides go well with this dish?
This chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
5. Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
This new way of cooking chicken is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of a juicy, flavorful roast chicken with a sweet and tangy sauce will conquer your taste buds and become a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish with your loved ones!
