Sunday Dinner Recipes: 7 Steps to Perfect Chicken Delight

sunday dinner recipes

By:

Julia marin

Sunday dinner recipes hold a special place in my heart—they’re all about gathering around the table, sharing stories, and indulging in comforting food that warms the soul. I remember the first time I made this herb-roasted chicken for my family. The aroma of garlic and fresh herbs filled the kitchen, and I could hardly wait for the first bite! What I love about this recipe is how simple yet elegant it is. The chicken roasts to perfection, while the seasonal vegetables soak up all those delicious flavors. It’s a meal that brings everyone together, making it a fantastic choice for family gatherings. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like diving into a juicy piece of chicken alongside vibrant, roasted veggies to create that cozy Sunday vibe!

sunday dinner recipes - detail 1

Ingredients for Herb-Roasted Chicken

  • 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 carrots, sliced
  • 2 parsnips, sliced
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 1 cup chicken broth

How to Prepare Herb-Roasted Chicken

Preparing herb-roasted chicken is a straightforward process, but it requires attention to detail for perfect results. Let’s break it down into manageable steps so you can confidently create a beautiful and delicious meal for your loved ones. From the moment you start, the enticing aroma of herbs will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delightful Sunday dinner.

Preheat and Prepare the Chicken

First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is what helps achieve that beautifully crispy skin we all crave! While that’s heating up, take your whole chicken and pat it dry with paper towels—this is crucial for crispiness! A dry surface allows the skin to roast beautifully instead of steaming. Trust me, you’ll want to give it a good pat down!

Seasoning the Chicken

Now, let’s get to the fun part—seasoning! In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This herb mixture is the heart of your dish! Rub it generously all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin, too. This technique not only infuses flavor but also helps keep the meat juicy during roasting. Don’t be shy—get your hands in there!

Roasting Process

With your chicken seasoned, it’s time to arrange it in a roasting pan. Place the chicken breast-side up in the center, and then artfully arrange the sliced carrots, parsnips, and quartered onion around it. These vegetables will soak up all those savory juices as they cook! Now, pour the chicken broth into the pan—it adds moisture and flavor, creating a lovely base for your veggies. Pop the roasting pan into the preheated oven and let the magic begin! Roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and resist the urge to open the oven door too often; we want to keep all that heat inside!

Ensuring Perfect Cook

Here’s where a meat thermometer becomes your best friend! Monitor the internal temperature of the chicken, aiming for 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Once it’s perfectly cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is mouthwatering and tender. Oops! Don’t skip this step—it’s vital for juicy chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Classic comfort food that evokes warm family memories
  • Simple preparation that doesn’t require culinary expertise
  • Seasonal vegetable options to keep it fresh and vibrant year-round
  • Gluten-free meal that everyone can enjoy
  • Family-friendly dish that pleases both kids and adults

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each serving of this herb-roasted chicken, based on standard ingredients. Keep in mind that actual values may vary depending on the specific brands or types of ingredients you use.

  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Protein: 35g

This hearty meal is not only satisfying but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a wonderful choice for a comforting Sunday dinner!

Tips for Success

To ensure your herb-roasted chicken turns out perfectly, start by selecting a high-quality, organic chicken if possible—it’s often more flavorful and tender. Don’t forget to let the chicken come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting; this helps it cook more evenly. For that irresistible crispy skin, ensure your chicken is well-dried before seasoning and consider finishing it under the broiler for a few minutes if you want extra crunch. As for vegetables, feel free to swap in seasonal favorites like sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts for variety. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with this flexible approach!

Variations on Herb-Roasted Chicken

One of the best things about this herb-roasted chicken recipe is how adaptable it is! Feel free to switch up the herbs based on your taste or what you have on hand. For a zesty twist, add lemon or orange zest to the herb mixture—citrus pairs beautifully with the chicken and brightens the flavors. You can also experiment with different vegetables; try adding root vegetables like sweet potatoes or turnips for a sweeter flavor profile. Want a bit of heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes or fresh chili alongside the herbs! The possibilities are endless, and each variation can bring a new and exciting touch to your Sunday dinner table.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store leftovers, let the herb-roasted chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken—just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. For reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. This method helps retain moisture and keeps the skin crispy. Enjoy every bite once more!

Serving Suggestions

To round out your herb-roasted chicken feast, consider serving it with a few delightful side dishes that complement the flavors beautifully. A creamy mashed potato or velvety cauliflower puree makes for an indulgent pairing, soaking up the savory juices from the chicken. You can also whip up a fresh green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast. For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle the chicken with a homemade herb gravy or a simple pan sauce made from those delicious drippings. You’ll create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!

For more delicious recipes, check out classic baked chicken and potatoes recipes or creamy garlic butter chicken and rigatoni in parmesan sauce.

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sunday dinner recipes

Sunday Dinner Recipes: 7 Steps to Perfect Chicken Delight


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A classic Sunday dinner recipe featuring herb-roasted chicken with seasonal vegetables.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (45 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 carrots, sliced
  • 2 parsnips, sliced
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  4. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.
  5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan.
  6. Arrange carrots, parsnips, and onion around the chicken.
  7. Pour chicken broth into the pan.
  8. Roast in the oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  9. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
  10. Serve with roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • You can substitute vegetables based on seasonality.
  • For a crispy skin, ensure the chicken is dry before seasoning.
  • Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of a chicken with vegetables
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: sunday dinner recipes, herb roasted chicken, roasted vegetables

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

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