| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 1 hr 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 25g | 7g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 3g | 40g | 1.2g |
When I first discovered French Tarragon Roast Chicken, I was immediately drawn to its delicate yet robust flavors that echo both the elegance of French cuisine and the comforting familiarity of a New York homestyle meal. In a city as diverse as NYC, finding a recipe that evokes a sense of culinary wanderlust while still feeling like home is a rare and wonderful experience.
Aromatic Brilliance
One of the key reasons I love this French Tarragon Roast Chicken recipe is the aromatic brilliance of fresh tarragon. This licorice-scented herb, when combined with thyme, garlic, and the zesty freshness of lemon, brings a unique and sophisticated flavor profile to the dish. The blend of these herbs not only perfumes the kitchen wonderfully but also infuses each bite of the succulent chicken with a fragrant depth that’s both refreshing and comforting.
A Balanced, Nutritious Meal
Health benefits are another aspect that enhances my appreciation for this recipe. The use of olive oil instead of butter makes the dish lighter, catering to those of us who are health-conscious but unwilling to sacrifice flavor. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Coupled with nutrient-packed vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes, this recipe offers a balanced meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Carrots are abundant in beta-carotene, while potatoes provide both potassium and dietary fiber—perfect for a well-rounded diet.
Roast chicken might remind some of other classic dishes like Classic Roast Chicken or even Lemon Roast Chicken. What sets the French Tarragon Roast Chicken apart is its distinct herbal flair and the subtle sweetness from the carrots that balances the savory notes perfectly.
This dish also serves as a versatile main course that can pair beautifully with various sides. A fresh green salad or some steamed asparagus could complement this roast chicken wonderfully, completing a dining experience that’s both vibrant and satisfying.
In a hectic city like New York, finding the time to prepare a home-cooked meal can be challenging. Still, there’s something inherently rewarding about the process of roasting a whole chicken. It forces you to slow down, savor the moment, and take pride in creating something nourishing for yourself and your loved ones. And in those moments, even I, a busy stage actor, find a bit of peace. Whether you’re cooking for a gathering or simply yourself, the French Tarragon Roast Chicken is a recipe that uplifts the spirit and delights the palate.
What You’ll Need
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh French tarragon, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, halved
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 onions, quartered
- 6 small potatoes, halved
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the whole chicken thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a large roasting pan.
Step Two
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped French tarragon, chopped thyme, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a herb and oil paste.
Step Three
Rub the herb and oil paste all over the chicken, making sure to cover the entire surface, including under the skin and inside the cavity. Squeeze the juice from the lemon halves over the chicken, and then place the lemon halves inside the chicken cavity.
Step Four
Arrange the carrot chunks, quartered onions, and halved potatoes around the chicken in the roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
Step Five
Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast the chicken for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender. Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 30 minutes for extra flavor and moisture.
Step Six
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve the French Tarragon Roast Chicken with the roasted vegetables and any remaining pan juices. Enjoy your delicious meal!
