Juicy Whole Roasted Chicken with Vegetables – The Ultimate Recipe

Why This Is the Best Roasted Chicken Recipe

• Perfect Flavor Balance: The herb butter marinade infuses every bite with rosemary, parsley, garlic, and lemon.
• Crispy Skin and Juicy Meat: The roasting method ensures the chicken is golden on the outside and tender on the inside.
• Complete Meal: The roasted vegetables absorb the chicken’s juices, making them a perfect accompaniment.

Cooking with Granny Victoria: A Memory That Lives On

I still remember the warmth of my Granny Victoria’s kitchen, where love was measured in tablespoons and time was marked by the crackling sound of the oven. Every Sunday, the scent of roasted chicken filled the house, mingling with stories of her youth and laughter that echoed through generations. She passed away in 2012, but every time I roast a chicken, the aroma takes me back, bringing tears to my eyes and joy to my heart. This recipe is my tribute to her – a timeless dish that’s simple, comforting, and deeply personal.

The Origin and History of Chicken

Chicken has been a staple in human diets for thousands of years. Domesticated over 8,000 years ago in Southeast Asia, chickens spread globally due to their adaptability and quick reproduction. Fun fact: the chicken is the closest living relative to the Tyrannosaurus rex!

Chicken became a culinary favorite because of its versatility. From street food to fine dining, it’s a protein that spans all cultures and tastes.

5 Famous Chicken Recipes Worldwide

• Coq au Vin (France): A classic dish of chicken braised in wine with mushrooms, onions, and herbs.
• Butter Chicken (India): A creamy, spiced curry that’s loved globally.
• Chicken Adobo (Philippines): Chicken stewed in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic for a tangy, savory flavor.
• Pollo alla Cacciatora (Italy): Chicken cooked with tomatoes, olives, and wine, translating to “hunter’s chicken.”
• Buffalo Wings (USA): Fried chicken wings coated in tangy, spicy sauce – the ultimate party food.

Chicken in Romanian Cuisine

In Romania, chicken holds a special place at the heart of traditional meals. It’s no surprise, as over 90% of rural households in Romania raise chickens. This not only makes chicken accessible but also ensures it’s a fresh and integral part of the Romanian kitchen.

Traditional Romanian Chicken Dishes

• Chicken Soup: A clear broth with noodles and vegetables, often served as a cure-all for colds.
• Chicken Piftie: A savory jelly made from chicken and garlic, served cold.
• Roast Chicken: A Sunday staple, often served with potatoes and a side of pickles.

A Fun Tradition – Alergatul Găinii la Nuntă

Romanian weddings have a charming custom called alergatul găinii (“chasing the chicken”). In this tradition, the godmother chases a live chicken around the bride and groom to symbolize fertility, prosperity, and family unity. It’s a joyous moment that brings smiles to guests and honors old traditions.

4 Related Romanian Recipes

• Ostropel de Pui: Chicken stew with garlic and tomato sauce.
• Papricaș de Pui: A creamy chicken stew with paprika, served with dumplings.
• Pilaf cu Pui: Romanian-style chicken and rice pilaf.
• Chiftele de Pui: Chicken meatballs flavored with garlic and herbs.

Before you start cooking, check out some awesome chicken recipes on Cooking Romania by Vivi:

Juicy Whole Roasted Chicken with Vegetables – The Ultimate Recipe

Recipe by ViviCourse: Main, Dinner, LunchCuisine: RomanianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

30

minutes

Calories

600

kcal

Total time

1

hour 

45

minutes

Looking for the most flavorful, juicy whole roasted chicken recipe that’s perfect for any occasion? This step-by-step guide will show you how to make a perfectly golden, tender chicken with roasted vegetables that’s bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (approx. 4.4 lbs/2 kg)
  

• 2.2 lbs (1 kg) baking potatoes
  

• 4-5 carrots
  

• A few stalks of fresh celery
  

• 1-2 onions, quartered
  

• 2 garlic heads
  

• 3.5 oz (100 g) unsalted butter
  

• Olive oil (optional)
  

• 1 bunch fresh parsley
  

• 6 sprigs fresh rosemary
  

• 1 lemon (zested)
  

• 1 tsp thyme
  

• 1 bay leaf
  

• 1 tsp sweet paprika
  

• ⅔ cup (150 ml) dry white wine
  

• Salt and pepper to taste
  

• Soy sauce (optional)

Directions

• Preheat Your Oven
  Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Prepare the Chicken
  Thoroughly clean the chicken, removing any remaining feathers. Pat it dry with paper towels; this is key to achieving crispy skin.
• Prep the Vegetables
  Peel the potatoes, carrots, and onions. Cut the onions into quarters and, if large, halve the potatoes and carrots. Place all the vegetables in a large baking dish greased with a bit of butter. Add two sprigs of rosemary and a few garlic cloves to the vegetables.
• Make the Herb Butter
  In a small bowl, mix:
  • Melted butter
  • 2 finely chopped rosemary sprigs
  • Chopped parsley
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • Crushed garlic
  • Sweet paprika
  • Thyme
  • Salt and pepper
• Season the Chicken
  Rub the chicken inside and out with the herb butter, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Stuff the cavity with a bay leaf, some garlic cloves, onion pieces, and two sprigs of rosemary. Optionally, brush the chicken with olive oil for extra crispiness. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
• Roast the Chicken
  Cover the dish with aluminum foil and roast for 45 minutes.
• Add Wine and Baste
  After 45 minutes, remove the foil and pour the dry white wine into the dish. Baste the chicken with the juices. Continue roasting uncovered for another 45 minutes, basting the chicken every 15 minutes to keep it moist and enhance the golden crust.
• Rest the Chicken
  Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This ensures the juices redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful.

Recipe Video

Notes – Tips for the Perfect Whole Roasted Chicken

• Dry the chicken: patting the chicken dry before seasoning is essential for crispy skin.
• Customize flavors: feel free to add your favorite spices or soy sauce for a personalized twist.
• Cooking time: adjust cooking time based on the size of your chicken. A general rule is 20 minutes per pound (450g).
• Golden crust: basting the chicken regularly ensures a beautifully golden and crispy skin.

How to Serve the Roasted Chicken with Vegetables

Serve the chicken with the roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can also add mushrooms or your favorite seasonal veggies for variety. Pair with a glass of white wine for a restaurant-worthy experience.

This whole roasted chicken recipe delivers a perfect balance of crispy, golden skin and juicy, flavorful meat. Try it today and turn your dinner into an unforgettable feast!

When Do Romanians Eat Roasted Chicken?

Roast chicken is often the centerpiece of Romanian Sunday dinners, served with a side of roasted potatoes and homemade pickles. It’s also a festive dish, appearing on holiday tables, weddings, and family celebrations.

5 Reasons to Eat Chicken

• Rich in Protein: Chicken provides essential amino acids that support muscle health.
• Low in Fat: Especially when roasted, it’s a healthy source of lean protein.
• Versatile: From soups to roasts, chicken can be prepared in countless ways.
• Economical: A whole chicken is budget-friendly and can feed a family.
• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins like B6 and minerals like phosphorus and selenium.

Why Roast Chicken Is Healthy

Roasting retains the chicken’s nutrients while minimizing added fats. It’s an excellent source of B vitamins, which support energy production, and selenium, an antioxidant that boosts immunity. The vegetables roasted alongside add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish.

Vivi is a passionate teacher, story teller and photographer. Adara is a passionate accountant, businesswoman and videographer. On Cooking Romania by Vivi, the Mom and Daughter play together at the intersection of self and food mastery.