Imagine a dish that perfectly marries the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine with the wholesome goodness of roasted vegetables. Our Olive Oil Roasted Chicken and Cauliflower recipe is not just a meal; it's an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave your guests begging for more! With just 10 minutes of prep time and a mere 30 minutes in the oven, you'll have a delicious, aromatic feast ready to impress. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how simple ingredients can transform into a mouthwatering masterpiece that’s both healthy and satisfying!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even cooking.
- Prepare the chicken by patting the pieces dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika on all sides.
- Cut the cauliflower into uniform florets, approximately 1-
- 5 inches in size to ensure even roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss the cauliflower florets in this mixture until evenly coated.
- Select a large, rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. Spread the seasoned cauliflower florets in a single layer, creating space for the chicken pieces.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces on top of and around the cauliflower, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper browning.
- Drizzle any remaining olive oil mixture over the chicken and cauliflower for additional flavor and moisture.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cauliflower is golden and tender.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful chicken.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added freshness.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for a whole chicken cut into pieces for maximum flavor. Bone-in, skin-on chicken will yield the juiciest results and crispy skin.
- Don’t Rush the Prep: Patting the chicken dry is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin. Take your time to season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Uniform Cauliflower Florets: Cut your cauliflower into even-sized florets (about 1-
- 5 inches) to ensure they roast evenly and develop that beautiful golden color.
- Mix It Up: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the roasting pan for a colorful and nutritious twist.
- Use a Rimmed Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan will help catch any drippings and keep your oven clean while allowing for even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping your chicken moist and flavorful.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg