Looking for a healthy and flavorful weeknight dinner that’s both easy to make and impressive enough for company? Look no further than this garlic lemon roasted chicken with wild rice blend. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, combining juicy, aromatic chicken with a nutty, wholesome wild rice side dish. This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free indulgence for the whole family.
Garlic Lemon Roasted Chicken: A Flavorful Delight
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme sprigs
Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the chicken inside and out and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken is key for crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the garlic lemon mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated, including under the skin of the breast (be gentle!).
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan. You can add some vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to the pan for added flavor and a complete meal.
- If using, tuck rosemary or thyme sprigs inside the cavity of the chicken.
Roasting to Perfection
- Roast the chicken for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Basting the chicken with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes will help keep it moist and flavorful.
- If the skin starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the chicken with foil for part of the roasting time.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
Wild Rice Blend: A Nutritious Side Dish
Ingredients for the Wild Rice Blend
- 1 cup wild rice blend (ensure it is rinsed)
- 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or parsley for added flavor and texture
Cooking the Wild Rice Blend
- In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the rinsed wild rice blend to the saucepan and stir to coat with the vegetables and oil.
- Pour in the chicken broth or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in optional ingredients like dried cranberries, chopped pecans, or parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Carve the garlic lemon roasted chicken and serve it alongside the wild rice blend. Drizzle some of the pan juices over the chicken and rice for extra flavor. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make a perfect accompaniment to this delicious and wholesome meal.
Conclusion
This garlic lemon roasted chicken with wild rice blend is a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of zesty lemon and savory garlic in the chicken, coupled with the nutty texture of the wild rice, creates a memorable culinary experience. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness!
