Elevate your dinner table with the irresistible pairing of juicy Roasted Chicken and aromatic Basmati Rice in this comforting recipe. Perfectly seasoned with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and a hint of zesty lemon, the whole chicken is roasted to golden perfection, delivering moist, flavorful meat with every bite. Paired with a buttery rice pilaf simmered in chicken broth and infused with sautéed onions, carrots, and a fragrant bay leaf, this dish is a harmonious blend of richness and freshness. Whether you're serving it for a family gathering or a cozy weeknight meal, this hearty yet elegant combo is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Ready in just over an hour and packed with homey goodness, it's the ultimate one-pan delight that seamlessly combines a succulent protein with a vibrant side.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the entire surface and cavity with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
Slice the lemon and crush 3 garlic cloves. Stuff the chicken cavity with lemon slices, crushed garlic, and rosemary sprigs.
Place the chicken on a roasting pan and roast for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste occasionally with pan juices.
Meanwhile, rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and the remaining 3 crushed garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion is translucent.
Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring frequently for 2 minutes until lightly toasted.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Fluff the rice with a fork and serve it alongside the roasted chicken.
Calories |
1007 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 47.0 g | 60% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.6 g | 68% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 243 mg | 81% | |
| Sodium | 1275 mg | 55% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 58.8 g | 21% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.8 g | ||
| Protein | 79.2 g | 158% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 87 mg | 7% | |
| Iron | 5.1 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 934 mg | 20% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.