ADVERTISEMENT
#### Instructions:
### Step 1: Prepare the Roast Chicken
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. **Season the Chicken**: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, which helps it crisp up in the oven. Rub the chicken with **olive oil or melted butter**, ensuring it’s coated all over. Season generously with **garlic powder**, **onion powder**, **thyme**, **rosemary**, **salt**, and **pepper**.
3. **Stuff the Chicken**: Place the **lemon halves**, **garlic cloves**, and **onion** inside the chicken cavity. These aromatics will infuse the meat with flavor as it roasts.
4. **Tie the Legs**: If you like, tie the chicken legs with kitchen twine to keep it in a compact shape while roasting, which helps it cook evenly.
5. **Roast the Chicken**: Place the chicken on a roasting rack or a baking dish, and roast for **1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes**, or until the internal temperature reaches **165°F (74°C)** and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Baste the chicken halfway through with its juices for extra flavor and moisture.
### Step 2: Prepare the Roasted Vegetables
1. **Prepare the Veggies**: While the chicken roasts, prepare your vegetables. In a large bowl, toss **cubed potatoes**, **sliced carrots**, **red bell pepper**, and **zucchini** with **olive oil**, **salt**, **pepper**, and **oregano**.
2. **Roast the Veggies**: Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them in the oven for **25-30 minutes** or until they’re tender and caramelized, turning once during the cooking time to ensure even roasting.
### Step 3: Make the Mashed Potatoes
1. **Cook the Potatoes**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the **peeled and cut potatoes** and cook until they are fork-tender (about **15-20 minutes**).
2. **Mash the Potatoes**: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them using a potato masher or a hand mixer until smooth. Add the **butter**, **milk**, **salt**, and **pepper**, then stir until the potatoes are creamy and fluffy.
3. **Garnish**: If desired, garnish the mashed potatoes with freshly chopped **parsley**.
### Step 4: Serve the Meal
1. **Carve the Chicken**: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat. Carve the chicken into pieces.
2. **Plate the Meal**: Serve the roast chicken alongside the **mashed potatoes** and **roasted vegetables**. Pour any remaining pan juices from the chicken over the mashed potatoes or veggies for added flavor.
### Why This Is a Proper Meal:
– **Protein-Rich**: The roast chicken provides lean protein that’s satisfying and delicious.
– **Balanced with Veggies**: The roasted vegetables bring in vitamins, fiber, and a variety of flavors. The caramelization of the vegetables adds an extra layer of depth to the meal.
– **Comforting Carbs**: The creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect complement to the roasted chicken, providing comfort and fullness without feeling too heavy.
– **Full of Flavor**: The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon infuses the chicken with vibrant, savory flavors. The roasted vegetables are perfectly seasoned and crispy, while the mashed potatoes add a rich, creamy texture.
### Final Thoughts:
A **proper meal** doesn’t have to be complicated, but it should bring joy to the table. This **roast chicken with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes** is the epitome of a wholesome, balanced meal that leaves you feeling full, content, and nourished. It’s hearty without being overly indulgent, and the flavors work harmoniously to create a dish that truly satisfies all your cravings. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a comforting weeknight dinner, this meal will always be a winner. Enjoy!
