Savory Autumn Roast Chicken with Seasonal Vegetables

As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, it's time to cozy up with a warm and hearty meal that celebrates the flavors of autumn. This Savory Autumn Roast Chicken with Seasonal Vegetables is the perfect dish to bring the essence of the season to your dinner table. Roasted to perfection with a medley of seasonal vegetables, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that will nourish your body and soul.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)

  • 1 butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced

  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

  • 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped

  • 1 red onion, peeled and cut into wedges

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary

  • 2 sprigs of fresh thyme

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 lemon, sliced

  • 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. In a large roasting pan, place the diced butternut squash, carrots, parsnips, red onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat the vegetables evenly.

  3. Season the chicken inside and out with salt and pepper. Stuff the chicken cavity with lemon slices, rosemary, and thyme sprigs.

  4. Place the seasoned whole chicken on top of the bed of vegetables in the roasting pan.

  5. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.

  6. If desired, during the last 30 minutes of roasting, you can add chicken broth or white wine to the pan for added flavor and moisture.

  7. Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

  8. Serve the roast chicken alongside the roasted seasonal vegetables for a delightful autumn feast.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Chicken is a lean source of protein, important for muscle health.

  • Butternut squash, carrots, and parsnips provide vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.

  • Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme offer flavor and potential health benefits.

  • Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, known for heart health.

Main CoursesZenka Caroroast chicken, autumn recipes, seasonal vegetables, butternut squash, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, protein, fiber, antioxidants, heart health.