Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken with Potatoes: A Perfect Comfort Meal

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When it comes to preparing a comforting and delicious meal for your family, nothing beats a well-roasted chicken. This Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken with Potatoes recipe is not only flavorful but also straightforward to make. The combination of zesty lemon, aromatic herbs, and tender potatoes makes it a hit at any dinner table. Let’s dive into the details and bring this delightful dish to life.

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Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken with Potatoes

• 2 whole lemons, preferably organic
• 2 medium yellow onions, sliced ¼” thick
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon Herbes de Provence
• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 whole roasting chicken (approximately 4-5 lbs.)
• 4 large rosemary sprigs, torn into smaller pieces, divided
• 1 lb. baby red potatoes, scrubbed
• 1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
• ½ cup chicken broth, preferably organic

Instructions:

1. Preparation: Start by placing the top oven rack in the center position and preheating your oven to 400°F. Zest one of the lemons using a microplane and cut the rest of it into quarters. Set both the zest and the quartered lemon aside. Slice the remaining lemon into ¼-inch thick slices and arrange them at the bottom of a large, oven-safe skillet along with the sliced yellow onion.
2. Lemon-Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the lemon zest, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and Herbes de Provence. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and stir with a fork to create a smooth paste.
3. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken on top of the onions and lemon slices in the skillet. Gently massage 1-2 tablespoons of the lemon-butter mixture under the skin of the chicken. Spread the remaining mixture evenly over the outside of the chicken. Stuff the chicken cavity with the quartered lemon and 1/3 of the rosemary sprigs. Secure the legs together with kitchen string.
4. Season the Potatoes: In a large glass bowl, toss the baby red potatoes with the remaining olive oil and fresh rosemary. Season with salt and black pepper as desired. Nestle the seasoned potatoes around the chicken in the skillet.
5. Roasting: Add the chicken broth and whole peppercorns to the skillet. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and roast for one hour. If necessary, loosely cover the chicken with aluminum foil after 45 minutes to prevent over-browning.
6. Check for Doneness: After an hour, remove the skillet from the oven and check the chicken’s internal temperature by inserting an instant-read thermometer between the leg and breast, but not against the bone. The chicken should reach an internal temperature just below 165°F before removing it from the oven, as it will continue to cook while resting.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before carving. Serve immediately, topped with some of the delicious juices from the skillet and the roasted rosemary potatoes on the side. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips:

Monitoring Cook Time: Actual cook time may vary depending on several factors, including the starting internal temperature, the size of the bird, and fluctuations in oven temperatures. For best results, start checking with an instant-read thermometer after 1 hour and adjust the final cook time accordingly.

Prevent Over-Browning: If the chicken starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil after 45 minutes of roasting.

This Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken with Potatoes recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The citrusy lemon, fragrant herbs, and tender, juicy chicken make it an unforgettable meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Benefits of Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken with Potatoes

In addition to being incredibly delicious, this Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken with Potatoes is also packed with nutritional benefits. Let’s explore some of the key ingredients and their health advantages:

Chicken

Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin B6: Supports brain health and metabolism.
• Niacin (Vitamin B3): Helps convert food into energy and supports cardiovascular health.
• Phosphorus: Essential for strong bones and teeth.

Lemon

Lemons add a refreshing flavor to the dish while providing numerous health benefits:

• Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that boosts the immune system and promotes skin health.
• Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.
• Fiber: Aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.

Potatoes

Potatoes are often misunderstood as unhealthy, but they are a nutritious addition to any meal when prepared correctly:

• Vitamin C: Supports the immune system and skin health.
• Vitamin B6: Important for brain health and red blood cell production.
• Potassium: Helps maintain normal blood pressure and supports muscle function.
• Fiber: Promotes digestive health and helps keep you feeling full longer.

Herbes de Provence and Rosemary

These aromatic herbs not only enhance the flavor of the dish but also offer health benefits:

• Antioxidants: Help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Can help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Digestive health: Rosemary, in particular, has been shown to improve digestion.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that adds richness to the dish:

• Monounsaturated fats: Can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.
• Antioxidants: Protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.

Tips for a Healthier Meal

To make this meal even healthier, consider the following tips:

• Use organic ingredients: Whenever possible, choose organic chicken, lemons, and vegetables to reduce exposure to pesticides and other chemicals.
• Limit added salt: While seasoning is essential for flavor, be mindful of the amount of salt you add to the dish. Use herbs and spices to enhance flavor without relying too much on salt.
• Balance your plate: Serve this roasted chicken and potatoes with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables for a balanced and nutritious meal.

This Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken with Potatoes is not only a feast for the senses but also a meal packed with essential nutrients. By combining lean protein, healthy fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, this dish supports a well-rounded and nutritious diet. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress and nourish everyone at the table. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the health benefits that come with each bite!

Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken with Potatoes: A Perfect Comfort Meal

Recipe by Easy Clean RecipesCourse: EntreeDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

30

minutes

Ingredients

•  2 whole lemons, preferably organic

• 2 medium yellow onions, sliced ¼” thick

• ¼ c. extra virgin olive oil, divided

• 2 T. unsalted butter, room temperature

• 1 t. garlic powder

• 1 t. onion powder

• 1 T. Herbes de Provence

• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 whole roasting chicken (approximately 4-5 lbs.)

• 4 large rosemary sprigs, torn into smaller pieces, divided

• 1 lbs. baby red potatoes, scrubbed

• 1 T. whole peppercorns

• ½ c. chicken broth, preferably organic

Directions

• Place the top oven rack in the center position and pre-heat the oven to 400°F. Zest one of the lemons with a microplane and cut the rest of it into quarters. Set the zest and lemon aside.
• Slice the remaining lemon into ¼-inch thick slices and arrange on the bottom of a large, oven-safe skillet, along with the sliced yellow onion. Set aside.
• In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of olive oil with the lemon zest, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and Herbes de Provence. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, and stir with a fork to create a paste.
• Place the chicken on top of the onions and lemon in the skillet and gently massage 1-2 tablespoons of the lemon-butter mixture under the skin. Spread the remaining mixture all over the outside of the chicken in an even layer.
• Stuff the chicken with the quartered lemon and 1/3 of the rosemary sprigs. Secure the legs together with kitchen string.
• In a large glass bowl, toss the baby red potatoes with the remaining olive oil and fresh rosemary. Season with salt and black pepper, as desired.
• Nestle the seasoned potatoes around the chicken before adding the chicken broth and whole peppercorns. Place the skillet in the pre-heated oven to roast for one hour.
• After an hour, remove from oven and check for doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer between the leg and breast, but not against the bone.
  
  Note: Chicken should reach an internal temperature just below 165°F before removing from the oven. The temperature will rise several degrees as it rests.
• Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before carving. Serve immediately topped with some of the juices from the skillet and the roasted rosemary potatoes on the side. Enjoy!

Pairing Suggestions for a Complete Meal

To elevate your Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken with Potatoes to a complete meal, consider pairing it with some complementary sides and a refreshing beverage. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Side Dishes

1. Garlic Green Beans:
   • Ingredients: Fresh green beans, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
   • Instructions: Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Sauté minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant, then toss in the green beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the beans are tender but still crisp.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze:
   • Ingredients: Brussels sprouts, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
   • Instructions: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes until crispy. Drizzle with a balsamic glaze made by reducing balsamic vinegar and honey over medium heat until thickened.
3. Mixed Greens Salad:
   • Ingredients: Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese, and your favorite vinaigrette.
   • Instructions: Combine the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion in a large bowl. Top with crumbled feta cheese and toss with your preferred vinaigrette just before serving.

Beverages

1. Citrus Iced Tea:
   • Ingredients: Black tea bags, water, lemon, orange, honey or sugar (optional).
   • Instructions: Brew a strong batch of black tea and let it cool. Add freshly squeezed lemon and orange juice to the tea. Sweeten with honey or sugar if desired. Serve over ice with a slice of lemon or orange for garnish.
2. White Wine:
   • A crisp and refreshing white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay pairs wonderfully with the citrus notes in the roasted chicken. The acidity of the wine complements the lemony flavors and balances the richness of the dish.
3. Sparkling Water with Lemon:
   • For a non-alcoholic option, serve sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a few lemon slices. This refreshing drink will cleanse your palate and enhance the flavors of the meal.

Dessert Ideas

1. Lemon Bars:
   • Ingredients: Lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, flour, butter, eggs.
   • Instructions: Make a shortbread crust by combining flour, sugar, and butter. Press it into a baking pan and bake until golden. Meanwhile, prepare the lemon filling by mixing lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, flour, and eggs. Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven until set. Let it cool completely before slicing into bars.
2. Fruit Salad:
   • Ingredients: A mix of fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, mango, and mint.
   • Instructions: Chop the fruits into bite-sized pieces and combine them in a large bowl. Add a handful of fresh mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor. You can also drizzle a bit of honey or fresh lime juice over the top for added sweetness and zest.
3. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream with Berries:
   • Ingredients: Vanilla bean ice cream, fresh berries (such as raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries).
   • Instructions: Scoop vanilla bean ice cream into bowls and top with a medley of fresh berries. The simple combination of creamy ice cream and juicy berries creates a refreshing and satisfying end to your meal.

Conclusion

Pairing your Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken with Potatoes with complementary side dishes, beverages, and desserts ensures a well-rounded and enjoyable dining experience. The suggested sides, drinks, and desserts not only enhance the flavors of the main dish but also provide a variety of textures and tastes that will delight your family and guests. Enjoy crafting this delicious and nutritious meal, and savor the moments spent around the table with loved ones. Happy cooking!

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