Roasted Chicken With Potatoes And Carrots

Name: Roasted Chicken With Potatoes And Carrots
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs); 4 medium potatoes, cut into chunks; 3 large carrots, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 teaspoons dried rosemary; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, quartered

Highlighted under: Warm Comfort Food Recipes

I love making Roasted Chicken with Potatoes and Carrots, as it feels like a warm hug on a plate. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, and I appreciate how simple it is to prepare. The blend of juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and caramelized carrots brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen while it roasts is simply irresistible. It's a recipe that never fails to impress, and I can't wait to share it with you!

Created by

Elowen Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-08T02:33:36.515Z

When I first attempted this roasted chicken recipe, I was amazed by how the combination of herbs and vegetables enhances the flavors. Using fresh rosemary and thyme adds a lovely aromatic quality that transforms a simple chicken dinner into something spectacular. I usually opt for root vegetables like carrots and potatoes because they soak up the chicken's juices and become incredibly tasty.

I've also learned a helpful tip: letting the chicken sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting ensures that it cooks evenly and stays juicy. This small step makes all the difference, resulting in a beautifully golden skin and tender meat that's bursting with flavor.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy and flavorful chicken that’s perfectly roasted
Crisp and tender vegetables infused with savory juices
Simple to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
A family favorite that brings everyone around the table

Choosing the Right Chicken

Selecting the right chicken is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your roasted dish. Look for a whole chicken that is well-rounded and has a uniform color without any blemishes. A weight of 3-4 lbs is ideal, as it ensures even cooking. If possible, opt for organic or free-range chicken, as they tend to have a richer flavor and more tender meat due to their diet and upbringing.

When preparing your chicken, remember to pat it dry with paper towels. This step helps achieve crispy skin, as moisture can lead to steaming instead of roasting. By removing excess moisture, the skin can render fat beautifully, turning golden brown and creating a delectable texture. For optimal results, I recommend letting the chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before seasoning.

Enhancing Flavor with Herbs and Aromatics

The combination of dried rosemary and thyme in this recipe elevates the chicken with aromatic flavors that are beautifully infused during roasting. Rosemary imparts a slightly piney flavor, while thyme offers a subtle earthiness that complements the chicken. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to substitute the dried versions, using about three times the amount. This will enhance the overall freshness of the dish.

Garlic plays a key role in deepening the flavor profile. Mince the garlic finely to release its oils, allowing it to permeate the chicken. For an even more potent infusion, consider stuffing a few crushed garlic cloves inside the chicken cavity along with the lemon. This provides an aromatic steam that enhances the deliciousness of the chicken as it roasts.

Perfecting the Roasting Process

Roasting at 400°F (200°C) is ideal for achieving a perfectly cooked chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat. Throughout the cooking process, basting the chicken every 20 minutes with the accumulated juices in the pan not only adds flavor but helps keep the meat moist. Be sure to use a baster or a spoon to evenly distribute the juices over the skin.

To check for doneness, always use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, ensuring it doesn't touch bone. The chicken is ready when it registers at least 165°F (75°C). To avoid overcooking, I recommend checking the temperature at around the 50-minute mark. If the chicken skin is browning too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the inside to cook through.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful roasted chicken dish:

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
4 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
3 large carrots, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons dried rosemary
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, quartered

Make sure to have everything ready before starting your cooking adventure!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect roasted chicken:

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin for extra flavor.

Arrange the Vegetables

In a roasting pan, arrange the potatoes and carrots. Drizzle some olive oil over them and season with salt and pepper. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables, and tuck the lemon quarters inside the chicken cavity.

Roast the Chicken

Roast in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste occasionally with the juices for even better flavor.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving. Serve the chicken with the roasted potatoes and carrots for a complete meal.

Enjoy your delicious roasted chicken dinner!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, broil the chicken for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a busy week, this roasted chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can season the chicken and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before roasting. This allows the flavors to deepen while saving you time on dinner day. Just ensure to bring the chicken back to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting for even cooking.

Leftover roasted chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It’s perfect for making salads, sandwiches, or even soups. If you want to keep it for an extended period, consider freezing the leftover meat. Just ensure you remove the bones and wrap the chicken in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn, where it can last up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

This roasted chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a fresh touch, serve it alongside a simple green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables for an added burst of color and flavor. You could also provide a crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices from the pan.

For those looking to spice things up, consider serving the chicken with a homemade chimichurri or tzatziki sauce. These sauces add a vibrant contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and vegetables. They are also a great way to incorporate more freshness into your meal, especially during warmer months.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or zucchini based on your preference.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can this be made in advance?

Yes, you can season your chicken and chop the vegetables a day ahead. Just keep them covered in the fridge.

→ What do I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.