Welcome, chicken lovers! Are you ready to take your Sunday roast to the next level with this delicious honey roasted chicken recipe? Imagine a perfectly moist chicken breast covered in a crispy golden skin, all topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that will leave your family or guests craving for more. Let’s dive into this easy yet impressive dish that’s bound to become a household favorite.
Introduction
This honey roasted chicken recipe is a fusion of rich, savory flavors with a touch of sweetness. Drawing from classic roast chicken traditions, this recipe adds an irresistible twist with a honey glaze inspired by comforting family meals. Perfect for weekend dinners, this dish offers the ideal balance of sweet and savory, making it the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re familiar with traditional roasts or new to the kitchen, this recipe will guide you step by step to ensure success. Get ready to indulge in tender chicken, crispy skin, and the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients for Honey Roasted Chicken
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. You can easily substitute or adjust some ingredients to fit dietary restrictions.
- For the Chicken
- 1/2 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 1/2 – 4 pounds whole chicken, giblets discarded
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh thyme
- Fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 egg
- For the Honey Glaze
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water (plus 1/2 tablespoon)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth, low sodium
- 1/2 cup white wine (cooking)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon butter, chilled and cut into pieces
Feel free to substitute the butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version, and for a gluten-free option, ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
How to Make Honey Roasted Chicken – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the rack in the center position.
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Divide the spice mixture in half.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Stuff the cavity with quartered onion, halved lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme and parsley.
Step 2: Season and Truss the Chicken
- Mix half of the spice mixture with melted butter, and the other half with the egg.
- Gently pour the butter-spice mixture under the chicken skin and massage it into the meat.
- Brush the outside of the chicken with the egg-spice mixture. Truss the chicken with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Create the Glaze
- Stir the cornstarch and 1/2 tablespoon of water in a small bowl to dissolve.
- In a saucepan, bring the honey and apple cider vinegar to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook until the mixture reduces to about 1/4 cup, then whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Simmer for one more minute.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken
- Place the chicken on a V-rack set inside a roasting pan or on a cooling rack over a dish. Roast for 35 minutes until the chicken is golden.
- Remove the pan from the oven, pour in the broth and wine, then brush the chicken with a thick layer of the honey glaze.
- Roast for an additional 30 minutes, basting occasionally, until the thigh registers 165°F.
Helpful Tips for Honey Roasted Chicken
- To ensure the chicken stays moist, do not overcook it. Always use a thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Use high-quality honey for the glaze to maximize its sweetness.
- If you’re out of apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar can be used as substitutes.
Cooking Tips for the Best Honey Roasted Chicken
- Best Honey Roasted Chicken Hacks: If you want an even crispier skin, broil the chicken for the last 5 minutes.
- Cooking with a cast iron skillet can help distribute heat more evenly, ensuring that every part of the chicken cooks perfectly.
Serving Suggestions for Honey Roasted Chicken
Pair your honey roasted chicken with these complementary side dishes:
- Mashed potatoes for a classic pairing
- Roasted vegetables such as carrots and Brussels sprouts
- A fresh, light salad with a lemon vinaigrette
For beverages, serve with white wine, such as Chardonnay or a refreshing iced tea.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving of this honey roasted chicken recipe:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Protein: 38g
- Vitamin C: 12%
- Iron: 10%
Storage and Leftovers for Honey Roasted Chicken
Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the chicken in foil and bake at 300°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain its moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the meat.
4 Frequently Asked Questions for Honey Roasted Chicken
1. Can I make this recipe with chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, but be mindful of the cooking time, as chicken breasts will cook faster than a whole chicken.
2. Can I use a different glaze if I don’t like honey?
Absolutely! You can substitute honey with maple syrup or even a balsamic reduction for a different flavor profile.
3. What herbs can I substitute for thyme and parsley?
You can use rosemary, oregano, or sage depending on your taste preferences.
4. How do I know when my chicken is done?
The chicken is ready when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F.
2 Related Recipes for Honey Roasted Chicken Lovers
These recipes will perfectly complement your honey roasted chicken!
Conclusion
I hope this honey roasted chicken recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen, offering a delicious and comforting meal. Be sure to share your version and any creative twists you add! Happy cooking!
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Honey Roasted Chicken Recipe
Description
Welcome, chicken lovers! Are you ready to take your Sunday roast to the next level with this delicious honey roasted chicken recipe? Imagine a perfectly moist chicken breast covered in a crispy golden skin, all topped with a sweet and tangy glaze that will leave your family or guests craving for more. Let’s dive into this easy yet impressive dish that’s bound to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece. You can easily substitute or adjust some ingredients to fit dietary restrictions.
- For the Chicken
- 1/2 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 3 1/2 – 4 pounds whole chicken, giblets discarded
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh thyme
- Fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 egg
- For the Honey Glaze
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup water (plus 1/2 tablespoon)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 1/2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth, low sodium
- 1/2 cup white wine (cooking)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon butter, chilled and cut into pieces
Feel free to substitute the butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version, and for a gluten-free option, ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and place the rack in the center position.
- In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Divide the spice mixture in half.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Stuff the cavity with quartered onion, halved lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme and parsley.
Step 2: Season and Truss the Chicken
- Mix half of the spice mixture with melted butter, and the other half with the egg.
- Gently pour the butter-spice mixture under the chicken skin and massage it into the meat.
- Brush the outside of the chicken with the egg-spice mixture. Truss the chicken with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Create the Glaze
- Stir the cornstarch and 1/2 tablespoon of water in a small bowl to dissolve.
- In a saucepan, bring the honey and apple cider vinegar to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook until the mixture reduces to about 1/4 cup, then whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Simmer for one more minute.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken
- Place the chicken on a V-rack set inside a roasting pan or on a cooling rack over a dish. Roast for 35 minutes until the chicken is golden.
- Remove the pan from the oven, pour in the broth and wine, then brush the chicken with a thick layer of the honey glaze.
- Roast for an additional 30 minutes, basting occasionally, until the thigh registers 165°F.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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- To ensure the chicken stays moist, do not overcook it. Always use a thermometer to check the internal temperature.
- Use high-quality honey for the glaze to maximize its sweetness.
- If you’re out of apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar can be used as substitutes.
