| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 1 hour 30 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 410 | 25g | 6g | 8g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 2g | 37g | 1.4g |
As a Louisiana native with French ancestry, my passion for food has always been a major cornerstone in my life. And the very recipe that encapsulates those rich flavors and vibrant cultures beautifully, is the Clementine Roasted Chicken.
The Richness of Flavor
What makes this Clementine Roasted Chicken so close to my heart is the unexpected combination of rich, hearty chicken and the zesty, vibrant clementines. That Creole influence shows through in the use of bold, down-to-earth ingredients like white wine and garlic, elements that when combined, create a unique, savory experience.
And let’s not forget about the French flare with hints of fresh rosemary, and of course, the distinct star of the show, the clementine. The European sophistication pairs perfectly with the Creole boldness, culminating in a hands-down, succulent roasted chicken.
A Wholesome Dish
Not only is this dish incredibly flavorful, but it is also packed with plenty of health benefits. The chicken offers an excellent source of lean protein, while the clementines provide a hearty dose of vitamin C. The blend of olive oil and garlic bring heart-health benefits to the table, making this recipe not only delicious, but also nutritious.
Complementing Dishes
And if you’re wondering what to pair this delightful roast with, look no further than traditional Southern sides. A creamy serving of mashed potatoes, grilled asparagus or tarragon carrots complement the chicken beautifully, echoing the heartiness and vibrant flavors.
If you’re in the mood for a French twist, consider serving with a side of ratatouille or a fresh mesclun salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The contrast of the light greens against the decadent chicken and bright clementines makes for a symphony for the senses. You could also check out this delicious Ratatouille recipe for inspiration.
Bringing my two worlds together with this recipe has been nothing short of a gastronomic revelation. From the Creole richness to the French elegance, the Clementine Roasted Chicken is a love letter to my heritage, and one I take immense joy in sharing.
What You’ll Need
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
- 4 fresh clementines
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Method
Step One:
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Take your whole chicken and rinse it under cold water, then pat dry using kitchen towels.
Step Two:
After drying, place your chicken in a large roasting pan.
Step Three:
Take 3 of the clementines and zest them into a small bowl. Then cut these clementines in half and squeeze the juice into the same bowl. Slice the remaining clementine into thin slices and set aside.
Step Four:
Add olive oil, salt, pepper, and minced garlic into the bowl with clementine zest and juice. Mix well until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Step Five:
Rub this clementine mixture all over the chicken including under its skin.
Step Six:
Place chopped onion, rosemary sprigs, and clementine slices into the cavity of the chicken.
Step Seven:
Now place the chicken in the preheated oven. While the chicken is roasting, combine white wine and chicken broth in a saucepan over medium heat and bring it to a simmer.
Step Eight:
After 30 minutes of roasting, baste the chicken with this wine-broth mixture. Continue to baste every 15 minutes for the next hour or until the chicken is fully cooked. A thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh should read 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step Nine:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and the chicken will be juicier. Then carve your clementine roasted chicken and serve!
