Roasted Chicken with Potatoes

Introduction

Roasted chicken with potatoes is a traditional French recipe that combines tender meat with the sweetness of new potatoes and soft onions. This roasted chicken with potatoes recipe is simple to prepare and brings authentic flavors to your table. Perfect for a spring family meal, this comforting and elegant dish highlights simplicity and a delicate aroma for an unforgettable dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This roasted chicken with potatoes recipe is simple to make even for beginners. It uses few accessible ingredients and cooks in a casserole for rich flavors and perfect tenderness. The dish is ideal for casual dinners or special occasions. It’s quick to prepare and easy to adapt with seasonal vegetables. Both kids and adults will appreciate its balanced, hearty taste.

Recipe Origins

Roasted chicken with potatoes is inspired by the French culinary tradition, especially the iconic dish popularized by Paul Bocuse. This recipe reflects the Lyonnaise style of cooking, emphasizing slow, careful preparation in a casserole to enhance flavor and texture. It represents the heart of French home cooking, combining rustic simplicity and gourmet touch.

Ingredients

2 lean bacon slices
1 whole chicken about 3 to 3.5 pounds
6 small white onions
2.2 pounds new potatoes
60 g butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
Thyme
Salt
Pepper

Instructions

1- Remove the rind from the bacon and soak it in warm water to desalinate.

2- Pat the bacon slices dry then wrap the chicken with one slice on each side, tie it securely, and lightly salt.

3- Peel the onions and wash the new potatoes thoroughly, then pat dry.

4- In a cast iron casserole, melt half the butter and brown the chicken on all sides uncovered for about 20 minutes.

5- In a smaller casserole, heat the remaining butter with olive oil and thyme.

6- Add the onions and potatoes and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally; season with salt and pepper.

7- Discard the cooking fat and add the vegetables to the main casserole with the chicken.

8- Cover and cook together for 15 additional minutes.

9- Serve the chicken with vegetables and deglaze the cooking juices with a quarter ladle of boiling water.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 520
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 45g
Sodium: 450mg

Quick Facts

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty: ⭐⭐ (Easy)

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to keep the chicken skin crispy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this roasted chicken with a fresh green salad or crusty country bread. A dry white wine or light red wine pairs beautifully with this dish.

Common Mistakes

Not desalting the bacon can make the dish too salty.
Failing to tie the chicken results in uneven cooking.
Undercooking the vegetables leaves them crunchy.
Skipping the deglazing step reduces sauce richness.

Recipe Variations

Use lean prosciutto instead of bacon for a lighter version.
Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for extra freshness.
Include new carrots or peas for a springtime twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, prepare it the day before and gently reheat before serving.

Can I use cut-up chicken pieces?
Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly to avoid dryness.

What wines pair well with this dish?
Burgundy whites or light Beaujolais reds complement this recipe perfectly.

Conclusion

Roasted chicken with potatoes is a timeless French classic combining tender meat and flavorful vegetables. Cooking in a casserole delivers a hearty, comforting meal with a rustic yet refined touch. By following this recipe, you will serve a delicious and elegant dish that delights every family dinner.