Description
Succulent whole roasted chicken from Mediterranean kitchens delivers incredible flavor alongside a fresh avocado and tomato salad. Crisp herb-infused chicken pairs perfectly with zesty salad, offering you a delightful culinary journey through simple, elegant ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 pounds/1.8–2.3 kilograms)
- 2 ripe avocados (diced)
- 2 large tomatoes (diced)
- 1 small red onion (finely diced)
Seasoning and Herbs:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lemon (halved)
- 4 garlic cloves (smashed)
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or rosemary)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Ignite the oven to a sizzling 425F (220C), preparing for a culinary transformation.
- Meticulously blot the chicken with paper towels, ensuring a moisture-free surface for optimal crispiness. Massage olive oil across the entire bird, creating a glistening exterior. Sprinkle a generous coating of salt and pepper for robust flavor. Nestle lemon halves, crushed garlic cloves, and fragrant thyme deep within the cavity. Secure the legs with kitchen twine to maintain a compact shape.
- Position the chicken on a roasting rack, allowing heat to circulate evenly. Roast for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, monitoring until the internal temperature hits the perfect 165F (74C). The skin should transform into a golden, crackling masterpiece.
- During the chicken’s roasting, craft the vibrant salad. Dice ripe avocados, juicy tomatoes, and piquant red onion into a harmonious blend. Drizzle with a zesty olive oil and lime juice combination. Season with salt and pepper, then gently toss to marry the flavors. Scatter fresh cilantro or parsley for a verdant finish.
- After roasting, allow the chicken to rest peacefully for 10-15 minutes, letting juices redistribute. Carve with precision and plate alongside the refreshing avocado and tomato salad, creating a stunning culinary presentation.
Notes
- Moisture is key for a juicy roasted chicken, so thoroughly pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help crisp up the skin and lock in flavor.
- Truss the chicken legs with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking and prevent the legs from burning or drying out during roasting.
- Experiment with herb combinations like rosemary, thyme, or sage to add depth and personalize the chicken’s aromatic profile.
- For a gluten-free and low-carb option, this dish naturally fits dietary restrictions without requiring significant modifications.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 300 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg