Introduction

Jamie Oliver’s Energy-Saving Chicken Roast provides a delightful and sustainable way to enjoy a classic dish while minimizing energy consumption. This recipe not only emphasizes the use of simple, fresh ingredients but also showcases how you can create a flavorful meal without wasting resources.

Ingredients

– Whole chicken (1.5 kg)
– Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
– Sea salt (to taste)
– Black pepper (to taste)
– Fresh rosemary (a few sprigs)
– Garlic (2 cloves, unpeeled)
– Lemon (1, halved)
– Seasonal vegetables (such as potatoes, carrots, and onions)

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (fan 170°C/375°F/gas 5).

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Remove any giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with kitchen paper.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle salt and pepper generously. Rub the seasoning in for even coverage.

Step 4: Add Flavorings

Place a few sprigs of fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) inside the chicken cavity, along with a halved lemon and garlic cloves for extra flavor.

Step 5: Arrange in the Roasting Tray

Put the seasoned chicken in a roasting tray. Ideally, use a tray that is the right size to minimize the amount of air in the oven.

Step 6: Prepare Vegetables

Chop up root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and parsnips. Arrange these around the chicken in the roasting tray.

Step 7: Roast the Chicken

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours or until the juices run clear when pierced at the joint. Occasionally baste the chicken with its juices for added flavor.

Step 8: Rest the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest covered loosely with foil for at least 15 minutes.

Notes

Note 1: Choosing the Chicken

Opt for a free-range chicken if possible, as it tends to have better flavor and texture.

Note 2: Efficient Cooking

Roasting more than one chicken at a time can be a great way to save energy—just make sure there is enough space around each chicken for proper air circulation.

Note 3: Reuse the Flavors

Any leftover roasted vegetables can be mashed or turned into soups for a delicious second meal.

Note 4: Storage

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be used in salads, sandwiches, or other dishes.

Note 5: Experiment with Flavors

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of your roast chicken.

Cook techniques

Roasting

Roasting is an excellent cooking technique for creating crispy skin and juicy meat. Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking and texture.

One-pan cooking

Utilizing a single pan for cooking not only saves time on preparation and cleanup but also allows flavors to meld together beautifully.

Seasoning

Proper seasoning enhances the dish. Use salt and pepper generously, along with fresh herbs for added depth of flavor.

Resting the meat

Letting the chicken rest before carving allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.

Energy saving

Using the residual heat from the oven effectively allows for energy-efficient cooking while still achieving a beautifully roasted chicken.

FAQ

How long should I roast the chicken?

Roasting time depends on the weight of the chicken; a general rule is about 20 minutes per kilogram plus an additional 20 minutes.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes, feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you have on hand to accompany the roast.

What if I don’t have a roasting pan?

A baking tray lined with parchment paper can work as an alternative for roasting chicken.

How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

You can check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 75°C (165°F).

Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Conclusion

The energy-saving chicken roast is not only a delicious and satisfying dish but also an environmentally friendly choice. By utilizing simple techniques and ingredients, you can create a meal that is both efficient and tasty, making it a perfect addition to your weekly cooking routine.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Stir-Fry

A quick and vibrant dish, packed with seasonal vegetables and tossed in a light soy sauce, perfect for a healthy side.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Mix carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, seasoned with herbs and roasted to caramelized perfection as a hearty side.

Herbed Quinoa Salad

A refreshing dish combining quinoa with fresh herbs, citrus, and chopped vegetables for a nutritious complement to your roast.

Spicy Chickpea Stew

A warm and comforting stew that features chickpeas simmered with tomatoes, spices, and greens, providing a protein-packed option.

Garlic and Lemon Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli tossed with garlic and lemon juice for a vibrant and zesty side that enhances any main dish.

Homemade Flatbreads

Simple and easy to prepare, flatbreads can be served warm with your roast, complementing it perfectly and adding a nice texture.