Welcome to our savory delights section! Today, we’re sharing a flavorful and hearty recipe for Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering, combining tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and aromatic garlic with a hint of sweetness from maple syrup. 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 Oven and Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken and Potatoes: Rinse and pat dry the chicken leg quarters. Cut the Yukon Gold potatoes into chunks.
Step 2: Season the Chicken and Potatoes
- Season with Salt and Pepper: Season the chicken pieces and potato chunks generously with salt and ground black pepper.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter.
- Coat the Baking Dish: Pour the melted butter into a large baking dish, ensuring the bottom is well coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Add Chicken and Potatoes: Place the chicken pieces in the baking dish, arranging them in a single layer. Add the potato chunks around the chicken.
- Add Garlic Cloves: Scatter the unpeeled garlic cloves evenly over and around the chicken and potatoes.
Step 5: Roast the Chicken and Potatoes
- Roast in the Oven: Roast in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the potatoes are tender. Turn the chicken and potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
Step 6: Glaze with Maple Syrup
- Add Maple Syrup: Drizzle the maple syrup over the chicken and potatoes.
- Roast Again: Return the dish to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Step 7: Serve
- Serve Hot: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the garlic roasted chicken and potatoes hot, with the roasted garlic cloves for squeezing over the chicken and potatoes.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Garlic Flavor: Roasting the garlic cloves unpeeled gives them a sweet, mellow flavor. Squeeze the garlic out of its skin and spread it on the chicken and potatoes for added flavor.
- Crispy Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, cut them into smaller chunks and ensure they are spread out in a single layer without overcrowding.
- Maple Syrup Alternative: You can substitute honey or brown sugar for the maple syrup if you prefer a different type of sweetness.
Variations
Herb-Infused
Add fresh or dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the butter before coating the baking dish for an herb-infused flavor.
Spicy Twist
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter for a spicy kick.
Lemon-Garlic
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and potatoes before roasting, and add lemon wedges to the baking dish for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Vegetables Addition
Include additional vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers in the baking dish for a complete one-pan meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes, you can use any chicken parts you prefer, such as thighs, drumsticks, or even a whole cut-up chicken. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I tell if the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Yukon Gold?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative. They may cook slightly faster, so check them for doneness a bit earlier.
What should I do with the leftover roasted garlic?
Leftover roasted garlic can be spread on bread, mixed into mashed potatoes, or added to sauces for extra flavor.
How long does this dish last in the refrigerator?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
This Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and aromatic garlic, all enhanced by a touch of maple syrup, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious meal!
