Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes

📝 Description:

This Garlic Roasted Chicken and Potatoes dish is the definition of hearty and homey. Juicy, golden-brown chicken is infused with roasted garlic and herbs, nestled next to perfectly crispy potatoes. It’s a simple yet flavor-packed recipe ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy Sunday lunches.

🌍 Origin:

Rooted in Mediterranean and European rustic cooking traditions, garlic-roasted chicken with potatoes is a staple comfort meal found in Italian, Greek, and French kitchens, loved for its simplicity and full-bodied flavor.

🧾 Ingredients Quantity:

For the Chicken and Potatoes:

Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or legs – 4 to 6 pieces (~1.5 kg)
Potatoes (Yukon gold or red), cut into chunks – 1 kg (2.2 lbs)
Garlic cloves, peeled and smashed – 8–10 cloves
Olive oil – 4 tbsp
Fresh lemon juice – 2 tbsp
Paprika – 1 tsp
Dried oregano or thyme – 2 tsp
Salt – 1 ½ tsp
Black pepper – 1 tsp
Fresh rosemary (optional) – 2 sprigs
Unsalted butter (optional for richer flavor) – 2 tbsp, melted

🧄 Optional Add-ins:

Red pepper flakes – for a touch of heat
Carrots or onions – for extra roasted veggies
Whole garlic bulb cut in half (roasts beautifully)
Lemon zest – for extra brightness

🍽️ Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare Marinade:

In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano/thyme, salt, and pepper.

3. Season Chicken:

Add chicken pieces to the bowl and coat well in the marinade. Let sit for 15–30 minutes if possible.

4. Toss Potatoes:

Add chopped potatoes to the same bowl or a separate one, toss with a bit more olive oil and the remaining marinade.

5. Arrange in Pan:

Place chicken skin-side up on a large baking dish or sheet pan. Surround with potatoes and garlic cloves. Tuck in rosemary sprigs. Drizzle melted butter over the top (if using).

6. Roast:

Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until chicken is golden and cooked to 165°F (74°C) internally, and potatoes are crispy-tender.

7. Optional Broil:

For crispier skin, broil for 3–5 minutes at the end.

8. Rest & Serve:

Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Spoon juices over for extra flavor.

✔️ Tips for Success:

Pat chicken dry before marinating to ensure crisp skin.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; space between pieces ensures roasting, not steaming.
Flip potatoes once halfway for even crispness.
Use a meat thermometer for precise doneness.