Are you tired of the same old boring dinners that leave your family uninspired? Get ready to transform your weeknight meals with this mouthwatering whole chicken recipe that promises to be a game-changer! Imagine a perfectly roasted chicken with crispy golden skin, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables that will have everyone rushing to the dinner table. This isn't just a meal - it's a culinary experience that brings families together, creating memories with every delicious bite.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 90 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 2 cups rice
- 4 cups mixed vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture, allowing the skin to crisp up nicely during cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up. If you have kitchen twine, tie the legs together to help the chicken cook evenly.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can check the temperature by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
- While the chicken is roasting, rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps the rice cook more evenly.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and 1 teaspoon of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil for the mixed vegetables. Add the vegetables and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still vibrant in color. Drain and set aside.
- Once the chicken is done roasting, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more flavorful and juicy.
- After the chicken has rested, carve it into serving pieces. Serve the chicken alongside the cooked rice and mixed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade family meal, and feel free to garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Resting Matters: Let the chicken rest after roasting to keep the meat juicy and flavorful. Patience pays off in the kitchen!
- Prep Ahead: You can season the chicken and prepare your ingredients earlier in the day to make cooking faster and easier.
- Crispy Skin Secret: Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning to achieve that irresistible crispy exterior.
- Vegetable Hack: Don't overcook your vegetables - keep them vibrant and slightly crisp for the best texture and nutrition.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to your seasoning mix for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 100mg
