Delicious Oven-Roasted Chicken with Vegetables
If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful meal, oven-roasted chicken with vegetables is a perfect choice. This popular Iraqi dish combines a well-seasoned chicken with fresh vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, and onions, all baked together to create a delicious blend of flavors. The dish is loved for its rich taste and appealing aroma, making it a favorite in Iraqi homes and an excellent meal for those seeking a taste of authentic Iraqi cuisine.
Will guide you step-by-step on how to prepare the dish, including the ingredients, spices, marinade, and baking instructions. Ideal for both beginners and experienced cooks, this guide will help you recreate the taste of Iraq in your own kitchen.
Ingredients Needed for Oven-Roasted Chicken with Vegetables
Main Ingredients
Whole Chicken: 1 whole chicken, split in half and thoroughly washed.
Potatoes: 5 medium-sized potatoes, sliced into medium-thickness rounds.
Bell Pepper: 1 bell pepper, sliced into strips.
Onions: 2 onions, sliced into rounds.
Spices and Seasoning for Chicken Marinade
To give the chicken its rich, savory flavor, these spices are essential:
Black Pepper
Cumin
Paprika (for a vibrant color and mild spiciness)
Chicken Seasoning (a blend of spices specifically for poultry)
Garlic Powder
Onion Powder
Vinegar: Adds a slight tanginess that enhances the flavor.
Olive Oil: Helps to coat the spices and evenly distribute flavors.
Salt: To taste.
Cinnamon: A pinch for a warm, subtle hint of sweetness.
Sauce Ingredients
For a perfect balance of flavors, we’ll create a simple sauce that adds depth to the dish:
Tomato Paste: 2.5 tablespoons for a rich, tangy base.
Paprika: Adds color and warmth to the sauce.
Black Pepper and Cumin: A pinch of each for seasoning.
Crushed Garlic: To add aromatic flavor.
Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons to mix the sauce.
Salt: To taste.
Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
Hot Water: 2 cups, to bring the sauce together.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Marinade
Creating the right marinade is crucial to achieving the dish's rich flavor.
Mixing the Spices: In a bowl, mix black pepper, cumin, paprika, chicken seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, cinnamon, vinegar, and olive oil until well combined. Adjust the salt and spices according to your preference.
Marinating the Chicken: Rub this spice blend generously over the chicken halves, making sure every part of the chicken is well coated. For best results, let the chicken marinate for 3 to 4 hours to fully absorb the flavors.
2. Prepping the Vegetables
Slicing the Vegetables: Slice the potatoes, bell pepper, and onions into medium-sized rings.
Seasoning the Potatoes: In a separate bowl, toss the potato slices with a pinch of paprika and olive oil for added color and flavor.
3. Assembling the Dish
Prepping the Baking Dish: Grease your baking dish with a generous amount of butter. The butter not only prevents sticking but adds a rich flavor to the vegetables as they roast.
Layering the Vegetables: Start by arranging the seasoned potato slices in the baking dish, followed by the onion and bell pepper slices. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, feel free to add some chopped chili peppers.
Adding the Marinated Chicken: Place the marinated chicken halves on top of the vegetable layer, allowing the flavors to mingle as they bake.
4. Making the Sauce
Combining Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the tomato paste, paprika, black pepper, cumin, crushed garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt. Slowly add the hot water and mix until you achieve a smooth, thick sauce.
Pouring the Sauce: Drizzle the sauce evenly over the chicken, covering it thoroughly for a juicy, flavorful finish.
5. Baking Instructions
Covering the Dish: To trap the moisture and ensure even cooking, cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil or oven-safe plastic wrap.
Baking Time: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Check the chicken at the 45-minute mark – if it's tender and cooked through, remove the cover.
Final Browning: For a golden, crispy finish, let the chicken roast uncovered for an additional 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions and Tips
After baking, let the dish cool slightly before serving. Oven-roasted chicken with vegetables is best enjoyed with warm flatbread, making it ideal for sharing. The tender, flavorful chicken pairs perfectly with the roasted vegetables, creating a satisfying meal rich in Middle Eastern spices.
To add authenticity, consider serving it alongside a simple salad of fresh greens or a bowl of Iraqi rice. The dish is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit personal spice preferences – add more chili for heat or adjust the cinnamon for a hint of sweetness.
Tips for Success
Marinating Time: For the most flavorful chicken, marinate it for at least 3 hours. If time allows, marinating overnight will yield even better results.
Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your preference. Add extra black pepper or chili powder for a spicier kick.
Vegetable Selection: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, like carrots or zucchini, to add variety.
Garnishing: Fresh parsley or cilantro adds a bright, fresh touch to the final presentation.
This oven-roasted chicken with vegetables is a flavorful, comforting dish that's perfect for sharing. With a simple yet aromatic marinade, it brings the authentic taste of Iraq to your kitchen, making it a must-try for anyone interested in Middle Eastern cuisine. Whether you're hosting friends or cooking for family, this recipe promises a delicious, memorable meal. Enjoy the flavors of Iraq with every bite!