Description
A perfectly roasted chicken paired with sweet, tender maple-glazed carrots is the ultimate comfort meal. This dish brings warmth and flavor to any dinner table, whether for a cozy family night or a special occasion. The combination of savory roasted chicken and naturally sweet carrots creates a satisfying, elegant meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Roasted Chicken:
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1 whole chicken (about 4–5 pounds)
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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2 teaspoons sea salt
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried rosemary
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1 lemon, halved
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1 onion, quartered
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Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
For the Maple-Glazed Carrots:
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1 pound carrots, peeled and cut into sticks
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
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1 teaspoon sea salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
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Rinse the chicken and pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels.
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In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the mixture over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
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Place lemon halves and onion quarters inside the chicken cavity.
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Tie the chicken legs together with kitchen twine.
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Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan.
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Roast the chicken for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
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Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving.
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While the chicken is roasting, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the carrot sticks and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
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Drizzle maple syrup over the carrots and season with salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Toss to coat evenly.
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Cook for 8–10 minutes until carrots are tender and slightly caramelized.
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Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
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Carve the chicken and serve with the maple-glazed carrots.
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Notes
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For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight with olive oil and herbs.
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Use a roasting pan with a rack for even cooking.
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Leftover chicken can be shredded for sandwiches, salads, or soups.
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Adjust the carrot glaze sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup according to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes