Cast Iron Roast Chicken and Potatoes Recipe

Cook Time: 90 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 (4-pound) whole chicken
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Cooking twine
• 4 cups peeled, sliced potatoes (about 1/8 inch thick)
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary
• Rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)

Directions:

1. Place a 10-inch cast iron skillet on the center rack of a cold oven. Preheat the oven and skillet to 425F (220C).
2. While the oven is heating, remove any giblets from the chicken and discard or reserve for stock. Season the inside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Fold the tips of the wings under the neck area of the chicken and tie the legs together with cooking twine.
4. Combine avocado oil and olive oil in a small bowl and brush the outside of the chicken with the combined oils. Reserve any unused oil.
5. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
6. Carefully place the hot skillet on a heat-safe surface (such as your stove) and brush the inside of the skillet with the remaining reserved oils.
7. Place the chicken on its side in the skillet, ensuring the leg quarter makes contact with the hot skillet. Return the skillet to the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes.
8. Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine sliced potatoes, 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
9. Once the chicken has roasted on one side, carefully remove the skillet from the oven and place it on a cutting board. Turn the chicken to the other side and add the potato mixture to half of the skillet. Return the skillet to the oven and roast for another 25 to 30 minutes.
10. Remove the skillet from the oven again and return it to the cutting board. Lift the chicken slightly and spread the potatoes evenly across the entire skillet. Place the chicken breast-side up on top of the potatoes.
11. Roast until the chicken is no longer pink at the bone and the juices run clear, about 25 to 30 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh should read 165F (74C).
12. Turn off the oven and allow the chicken to rest inside the oven for 5 to 10 minutes. This will help keep the skin crispy.
13. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, carve the chicken, and serve the chicken and potatoes directly from the skillet.

Cook's Note: The cast iron skillet gets very hot and is heavy, so handle it with care. Use a cutting board or another heat-proof surface to protect your countertops.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 150
• Fat: 7g
• Carbs: 20g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 7mg
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Potassium: 489mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. If following a medically restrictive diet, consult with a doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Cast Iron Roast Chicken and Potatoes is a delicious and hearty one-pan meal that perfectly blends crispy chicken with tender roasted potatoes. Its a beloved dish in American cuisine, often making its way to dinner tables for both special occasions and family gatherings. The versatility of the recipe allows for slight modifications based on the cooks preferences, while still preserving its comforting nature.

Origin and History

The roots of this dish can be traced back to classic European cooking traditions, where whole roasted meats were common. Roasting meats in a cast iron skillet became especially popular in the United States due to the affordability, availability, and durability of cast iron cookware. Over the years, the dish evolved, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to suit regional tastes. While it's not associated with a particular historical event, the simplicity and practicality of the meal have made it a staple in many households.

Regional Variations

Though the dish is commonly enjoyed across the United States, different regions have put their own spin on the recipe. In the Northeast, for example, cooks may add a touch of maple syrup to the potatoes to enhance the savory-sweet flavor profile. In Southern states, the dish may include a blend of Cajun spices, adding a bold and spicy kick to the chicken. Additionally, some cooks incorporate local herbs like thyme or sage, which complement the chickens flavor beautifully.

What Sets It Apart

While roasted chicken and potatoes is a classic combination, the use of a cast iron skillet truly sets this dish apart. The skillet ensures that the chicken is evenly cooked with crispy skin, while the potatoes absorb all the savory flavors from the chicken, creating a perfect balance. Unlike roasted chicken recipes that may require multiple pans or steps, this one-pan method simplifies the cooking process without compromising on taste or texture. The addition of fresh rosemary adds a fragrant and aromatic touch, elevating the entire dish.

Where It Is Typically Served

Cast Iron Roast Chicken and Potatoes is often served as a family-style meal, perfect for Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where comfort food is desired. It is a popular dish in both casual and celebratory settings, as the ease of preparation allows for stress-free cooking without sacrificing flavor. The meal is often paired with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the chicken and potatoes.

Interesting Facts

• Cast iron skillets, once a staple in every home kitchen, are prized for their heat retention properties, which help cook food evenly and lock in flavor.
• Cast Iron Roast Chicken and Potatoes is often considered a one-pot meal, making cleanup much easier after cooking.
• The chickens skin becomes especially crispy when cooked in a cast iron pan, thanks to the direct heat and even cooking surface.
• While this dish is simple, the combination of rosemary and olive oil infuses a savory fragrance that elevates the meal beyond ordinary roasted chicken.

Conclusion

Whether you are cooking for your family or preparing a special meal for friends, Cast Iron Roast Chicken and Potatoes offers both comfort and elegance. Its a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when prepared thoughtfully, can result in a dish full of rich flavors. The use of a cast iron skillet not only ensures a beautifully roasted chicken but also makes cleanup easier, which is always a bonus for home cooks. No matter how you personalize this recipe, it remains a timeless classic in the world of American home cooking.

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