Indulge in Flavor: Butter Garlic Whole Roast Chicken - VLOGMAS DAY 25

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! It's finally the day we have all been waiting for and of course it's go big or go home in this kitchen of mine. For day 25 of #VLOGMAS2021 I cooked whole or rather roasted a whole chicken!! This was my first ever time roasting a full chicken and I must say it's not as hard or as complicated as I thought. Crispy skin, juicy insides, totally worth the wait! Welcome back to my kitchen! Today, I have a delectable recipe that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also fill your home with the irresistible aroma of roasted goodness. Our star of the day is the "Butter Garlic Whole Roast Chicken." Whether you're a seasoned chef looking to impress or a home cook seeking a straightforward yet impressive dinner, this recipe is sure to delight. It's simple, succulent, and superbly flavorful.

Who is this Recipe For? This Butter Garlic Whole Roast Chicken recipe is for anyone who craves a mouthwatering, tender, and juicy chicken dish. It's perfect for:

• Weeknight Dinners: When you want a hearty meal without the fuss.
• Special Occasions: Ideal for impressing your guests with minimal effort.
• Sunday Suppers: A comforting and classic choice for family gatherings.

This recipe is also a hit with those who enjoy meal prep. Leftover roast chicken is incredibly versatile and can be used in sandwiches, salads, or pasta dishes throughout the week.

Why it's Great

Flavor Explosion

The combination of butter and garlic is a match made in culinary heaven. The butter infuses the chicken with richness, while the garlic adds a delightful depth of flavor. As the chicken roasts, the garlic mellows, becoming sweet and aromatic, infusing every bite with savory goodness.

Minimal Effort, Maximum Impact

This recipe may seem fancy, but it's surprisingly easy to make. You'll spend less time in the kitchen and more time savoring the delicious results. It's a fantastic option for busy weekdays or when you want a stunning centerpiece without the fuss.

Versatile Leftovers

Roast an extra chicken, and you'll have the foundation for countless meals. Use leftover roast chicken in sandwiches, salads, soups, or tacos. The possibilities are endless, and you'll love the convenience.

INGREDIENTS

• 1kg Whole Chicken 
• 1/4 Cup Butter Melted 
• 3 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil 
• 1 Lemon Halved 
• Salt and Pepper 
• 2 Tablespoons Fresh Cilantro 
• 4 Cloves Garlic 
• 1 Head Garlic peeled and cut horizontally 
• 3 Fresh Rosemary Sprigs 
• 4-5 Medium Potatoes halved 
• 3 Carrots Largely Chopped 
• 1 Green Bell Pepper 
• Juice of half lemon

METHOD

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels. Make sure to remove any giblets from the cavity.
3. Place the chicken on a clean cutting board, breast side up. Gently loosen the skin over the breast and thighs using your fingers. This will create a pocket for the butter mixture.

Step 2: Make the Butter Garlic Mixture

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter and minced garlic. Mix well until the garlic is evenly distributed throughout the butter.
2. Season the butter mixture with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Step 3: Season and Roast

1. Carefully lift the chicken's skin and spread the butter garlic mixture evenly under the skin, making sure to cover the breast and thighs.
2. Season the outside of the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
3. Place the chicken on a roasting rack set in a roasting pan, breast side up.
4. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

1. Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender roast.
2. Carve the chicken and serve it with your favorite side dishes. Don't forget to drizzle any remaining pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor.

Kitchen Equipment

To make this Butter Garlic Whole Roast Chicken, you'll need the following kitchen equipment:

• Roasting pan with a rack
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which you probably will because it's that good!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Leftover roast chicken is incredibly versatile and can be used in various recipes like chicken salad, chicken pot pie, or simply reheated and served with a side of vegetables.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe. Here are some ideas to customize your Butter Garlic Whole Roast Chicken:

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the butter mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the butter garlic mixture for a zesty twist.
• Spice it Up: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika for a hint of heat.
• Beer Can Chicken: Try making a beer can chicken by placing an opened can of beer in the chicken's cavity before roasting. The steam from the beer adds moisture and flavor to the chicken.