Farah’s Roast Chicken

When I think about my childhood, the comforting aroma of Farah’s Roast Chicken immediately brings me back to family gatherings around the dinner table. My mother had a way of turning a simple dish into an unforgettable feast, and this roast chicken was always the star of the show. Friends and family would gather, eagerly waiting for that moment when the savory scent would fill the air, letting everyone know that dinner was almost ready. What I love most about this recipe is how it brings everyone together, sparking conversations and laughter. Each bite is a blend of flavors—tangy lemon, aromatic herbs, and succulent chicken that melts in your mouth.

There’s a certain magic in roasting a chicken that can transform an ordinary evening into an extraordinary one. It’s a dish that celebrates simplicity while making even the busiest days feel special. As the chicken cooks, the skin crisps up beautifully, and the garlic and lemon create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime. So, let’s not wait any longer—grab your apron and let’s dive into making this delightful Farah’s Roast Chicken together!

Shopping List for Farah’s Roast Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making Farah’s Roast Chicken. Each component plays a vital role, ensuring that you achieve the perfect balance of flavors. The star of the dish, the whole chicken, is complemented by the freshness of lemon, the richness of olive oil, and aromatic herbs like rosemary and garlic. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors that elevate the dish.

• 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds, split down the back) – The centerpiece of this dish. A whole chicken roasts beautifully, ensuring juicy meat and crispy skin.
• 1/4 cup olive oil – Adds moisture and helps to brown the skin, giving it a deliciously crisp texture.
• 2 teaspoons yellow mustard – Adds depth to the flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste.
• 2 teaspoons honey – A hint of sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon crushed garlic – Infuses the dish with robust flavors; fresh garlic can be used for an even stronger taste.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (crushed in hand to release flavor) – A fragrant herb that pairs beautifully with chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Adds a subtle kick to the dish, enhancing its complexity.
• 1 medium lemon – The zest and juice brighten the flavors and add acidity that cuts through the richness.
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh lemon zest – Enhances the lemony flavor, giving the chicken a refreshing taste.
• 6 cloves garlic – Roasting these with the chicken brings out their sweetness and mellows their sharpness.
• Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning to ensure the flavors are balanced.
• 1 head garlic (optional) – Roasting this alongside the chicken creates a delicious spread for bread.
• Fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish – Adds color and freshness to your serving platter.

Step by Step Guide for Farah’s Roast Chicken

Roasting a chicken may seem intimidating, but I assure you, it’s simpler than you think! With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious Farah’s Roast Chicken that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the delicious journey of perfectly roasting a chicken that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor.

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This temperature is just right for roasting. While the oven heats up, place a rack in the center and lightly grease your roasting pan. This will prevent sticking and ensure a beautiful crust on the chicken.

2. Whisk together your olive oil, mustard, honey, crushed garlic, rosemary, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. The mixture should be smooth and well combined. This will form a flavorful paste that you will use to coat the chicken.

3. Prepare the lemon by rinsing and drying it. Zest about ¼ teaspoon of the lemon peel into your olive oil mixture. Then, cut the lemon in half and juice it, adding the juice back into the oil mixture. Set the juiced lemon aside; you’ll use it later.

4. Rinse and dry the chicken. Pat it dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Place the chicken breast side up in your roasting pan. Make sure to turn the drumsticks so that the tips are facing outward and tuck the wings behind the chicken.

5. Tuck the juiced lemon halves and the 6 whole garlic cloves underneath the chicken. This adds incredible flavor as it cooks, allowing the garlic to infuse its aroma into the meat.

6. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Then, brush the olive oil mixture liberally all over the chicken, ensuring every part is coated. Use all of the mixture for maximum flavor.

7. If you’re interested in roasting a head of garlic, slice the top off to reveal the cloves and place it, root side down, in the roasting pan. This will turn the garlic tender and aromatic, perfect for spreading.

8. Cover the roasting pan with foil and pierce the outer edges a few times. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper, but foil generally provides better protection for delicate ingredients.

9. Place the covered pan in the oven on the center rack. Roast for 80 to 100 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken. Make sure to rotate the roasting dish 180 degrees once during cooking for even heat distribution.

10. Check the chicken’s doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 170 degrees F, measured with a food thermometer. If it is done, remove the foil or parchment for the last 20 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to brown and get crispy.

11. Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, serve it on a platter garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Helpful Notes about Farah’s Roast Chicken

When it comes to making Farah’s Roast Chicken, there are a few helpful tips that can enhance your cooking experience. Keep these in mind as you prepare to impress your family and friends.

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the leftover chicken after it has cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will be good for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Experimenting: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for unique flavors.
• Serving size: This roast chicken is great for family gatherings or meal prep for the week. Use the leftovers creatively in salads or sandwiches.

How to Serve Farah’s Roast Chicken

Serving Farah’s Roast Chicken can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and pairings:

• Platter presentation: Carve the chicken and arrange it beautifully on a large serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a pop of color.
• Pair with sides: This roast chicken pairs wonderfully with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a refreshing green salad.
• Perfect for dinner parties: Impress your guests by serving this as the centerpiece at your next dinner party or holiday gathering.
• Ideal for meal prep: Use the leftovers for sandwiches or salads throughout the week to save time.
• Seasonal pairings: In the summer, serve with lighter sides like grilled vegetables, while in the winter, pair with hearty root vegetables.
• Storage options: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, or freeze them for later use.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Farah’s Roast Chicken is truly a recipe that embodies comfort and joy. It’s all about bringing loved ones together around a delicious meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and see for yourself why it’s become a staple in my home. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a dish that will surely make you smile and create lasting memories.

Farah’s Roast Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Farah’s Roast Chicken is a savory dish that combines crispy skin with tender, juicy meat. This easy weeknight dinner is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to satisfy any craving. Don't miss out on making it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 whole chicken 4-5 pounds, split down the back
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons yellow mustard
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon crushed garlic
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary crushed in hand to release flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 medium lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh lemon zest
• 6 cloves garlic
• salt & pepper to taste
• 1 head garlic (optional)
• fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Whisk
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Peeler
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This temperature is just right for roasting. While the oven heats up, place a rack in the center and lightly grease your roasting pan. This will prevent sticking and ensure a beautiful crust on the chicken.
2. Whisk together your olive oil, mustard, honey, crushed garlic, rosemary, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. The mixture should be smooth and well combined. This will form a flavorful paste that you will use to coat the chicken.
3. Prepare the lemon by rinsing and drying it. Zest about ¼ teaspoon of the lemon peel into your olive oil mixture. Then, cut the lemon in half and juice it, adding the juice back into the oil mixture. Set the juiced lemon aside; you’ll use it later.
4. Rinse and dry the chicken. Pat it dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Place the chicken breast side up in your roasting pan. Make sure to turn the drumsticks so that the tips are facing outward and tuck the wings behind the chicken.
5. Tuck the juiced lemon halves and the 6 whole garlic cloves underneath the chicken. This adds incredible flavor as it cooks, allowing the garlic to infuse its aroma into the meat.
6. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Then, brush the olive oil mixture liberally all over the chicken, ensuring every part is coated. Use all of the mixture for maximum flavor.
7. If you’re interested in roasting a head of garlic, slice the top off to reveal the cloves and place it, root side down, in the roasting pan. This will turn the garlic tender and aromatic, perfect for spreading.
8. Cover the roasting pan with foil and pierce the outer edges a few times. Alternatively, you can use parchment paper, but foil generally provides better protection for delicate ingredients.
9. Place the covered pan in the oven on the center rack. Roast for 80 to 100 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken. Make sure to rotate the roasting dish 180 degrees once during cooking for even heat distribution.
10. Check the chicken’s doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 170 degrees F, measured with a food thermometer. If it is done, remove the foil or parchment for the last 20 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to brown and get crispy.
11. Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, serve it on a platter garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the leftover chicken after it has cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will be good for up to three months.
• Tip 3: Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano for unique flavors.
• Tip 5: This roast chicken is great for family gatherings or meal prep for the week. Use the leftovers creatively in salads or sandwiches.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.