Step 1: Prepare the Herb-Crusted Roast Chicken
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity. Place the halved lemon inside the cavity.
- Roast the chicken: Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking.
- Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Boil the potatoes: In a large pot, cover the potato chunks with cold water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash the potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the minced garlic, butter, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Garnish: If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Step 3: Prepare the Roasted Vegetables
- Season the vegetables: In a large mixing bowl, toss the carrot sticks, halved Brussels sprouts, and red bell pepper strips with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Roast the vegetables: Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven (alongside the chicken, if there’s room) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized, stirring halfway through.
Step 4: Serve
- Carve the chicken: Carve the rested roast chicken into pieces.
- Plate the meal: Serve the herb-crusted roast chicken with garlic mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables on the side.
- Enjoy: Enjoy this fantastic home-cooked meal with your family and friends!
Tips for a Perfect Home Meal
- Season well: Don’t be afraid to generously season the chicken and vegetables for maximum flavor.
- Rest the meat: Allowing the chicken to rest before carving ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist.
- Even cooking: Cut the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
- Adjust to taste: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the mashed potatoes and vegetables to your preference.
Conclusion
This fantastic home meal of herb-crusted roast chicken, garlic mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables is sure to impress and satisfy. It’s a hearty and delicious dish that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful meal with your loved ones!