Roasted chicken

Oven-roasted chicken with garlic and spices - a savory and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

What could be more comforting than tender chicken infused with garlic and spices, cooked in the oven? This simple and delicious oven-roasted chicken recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will fill your entire home with enticing aromas, bringing a touch of warmth and comfort. I will share with you the key ingredients, the preparation steps, and some interesting variations that can transform this classic dish into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 chicken cut into pieces (avoid the back, save it for a delicious soup)
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1 tablespoon of pepper paste
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 Knorr chicken-flavored cube (or another seasoning variant)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. Garlic, besides its unmistakable flavor, offers numerous health benefits, having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Use quality olive oil, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which contribute to cardiovascular health.

Preparing the flavored chicken:

1. Preparing the spices:
Start by crushing the 5 cloves of garlic. I recommend using a knife or a mortar to achieve a fine paste. The crushed garlic will release its flavors better, bringing an intense taste to the dish.

2. Mixing the ingredients:
In a bowl, combine the crushed garlic with the pepper paste, ground coriander, lemon zest, crumbled Knorr cube, salt, and pepper. Add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil to form a smooth paste. The oil will not only help mix the spices but will also provide a tender texture to the chicken.

3. Seasoning the chicken:
Generously coat the chicken pieces with the spice mixture, ensuring that each piece is evenly covered. This marination will penetrate the meat, giving it a rich and aromatic flavor.

4. Preparing for the oven:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the chicken pieces in a baking dish, making sure they are not overcrowded, so they cook evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during the first cooking stage.

5. Baking the chicken:
Bake the chicken covered for 30 minutes. This step is essential to ensure tender and juicy meat.

6. Finishing the dish:
After 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and drizzle the chicken with the sauce formed in the dish. Increase the oven temperature to 220°C and let it bake for another 30-40 minutes, turning the chicken pieces occasionally and basting them with the sauce to avoid drying out.

Serving and suggestions:
Oven-roasted chicken is delicious served alongside a side of rice with carrots and corn, which adds a contrast of textures and flavors. A fresh salad or grilled vegetables would also be excellent accompaniments.

Interesting variations:
- For a more exotic taste, you can add spices like cumin or curry to the spice paste.
- If you like it spicy, add a bit of hot pepper or chili flakes to the spice mix.
- You can use free-range chicken for a more intense flavor and better texture.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long can I keep cooked chicken?
Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

- Can I freeze cooked chicken?
Yes, it is perfectly safe to freeze cooked chicken. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing it in containers or freezer bags.

- What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a light red wine will pair perfectly with the flavors of this oven-roasted chicken.

I hope you enjoy every bite! This oven-roasted chicken recipe with garlic and spices is not just a delicious meal, but also an opportunity to gather family and friends around the table. Give it a try and let me know how you liked it!

 Ingredients: 1 chicken cut into pieces (I didn't use the back, I kept it for soup) 5 cloves of garlic 1 tablespoon of pepper paste 1 teaspoon of ground coriander grated lemon zest 1/2 Knorr cube with chicken flavor salt pepper olive oil

 Tags:  oven-baked chicken chicken