Sunday roast dinners are a time-honored tradition that brings families and friends together for a hearty and delicious meal. One classic option is a roast chicken dinner, which is easy to prepare and always crowd-pleasing. In this post, we’ll take you through the steps to make a perfect roasted chicken Sunday roast dinner.
Ingredients
To make a roasted chicken Sunday roast dinner, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Whole chicken
- Carrots
- Potatoes
- Onion
- Garlic
- Lemon
- Thyme
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Chicken broth
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- Clean and truss the chicken, then stuff the cavity with lemon and thyme. Trussing the chicken is important to help it cook evenly and retain its shape. It’s a simple process that involves tying the legs and wings close to the body with kitchen twine.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This will help create a flavorful and crispy skin.
- Peel and chop the carrots and potatoes into bite-sized pieces, then chop the onion and garlic. These vegetables will roast alongside the chicken, adding flavor and texture to the dish.
- Toss the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. This will help the vegetables roast evenly and develop a delicious caramelized flavor.
- Place the chicken on a roasting pan and arrange the vegetables around it. Make sure to place the chicken breast-side up and arrange the vegetables in an even layer around it.
- Roast the chicken and vegetables in the oven for about an hour, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 75°C. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the chicken in the thickest part of the meat, being careful not to touch the bone.
Gravy
To make the gravy, remove the chicken from the roasting pan and set it aside to rest. Strain the drippings and remove any excess fat. Add chicken broth to the drippings and whisk until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
Arrange the roasted chicken and vegetables on a platter and pour the gravy over the top. Serve with additional sides such as stuffing, cranberry sauce, or rolls.
Tips and Variations
To make the perfect roasted chicken, truss it to help it cook evenly, and baste it with the pan juices to keep it moist. Let the chicken rest before carving to allow the juices to redistribute. You can also experiment with different herbs or vegetables, or add bacon to the pan for added flavor.
Leftovers
Roasted chicken is incredibly versatile, and leftovers can be used in sandwiches, salads, or soups throughout the week. Leftover vegetables can also be repurposed in a hash or frittata. To store the leftovers, place them in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Conclusion
A roasted chicken Sunday roast dinner is a classic and delicious meal that’s perfect for a family gathering or a special occasion. With a little bit of preparation and some patience, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Don’t forget to save the leftovers for sandwiches and other meals throughout the week. Enjoy!
