
Nothing quite says love around the dinner table like a platter of golden roasted chicken paired with crispy potatoes and a bright salad. This family feast brings warmth and togetherness to any weeknight or special occasion thanks to comforting flavors and hearty sides everyone loves.
I made this meal when my parents came to meet their newborn grandson and it has since become our go to Sunday dinner the leftovers never stick around for long
Ingredients
- Whole chicken: about four to five pounds makes a tender centerpiece look for one with pale dry skin and a clean scent
- Olive oil: brings moisture and flavor choose a bottle with a fresh grassy aroma
- Garlic powder and onion powder: give savory depth use fresh jars for the biggest punch
- Paprika: adds an inviting color and subtle warmth a Spanish smoked option is real treat
- Salt and pepper to taste: fresh cracked is always best
- Fresh herbs like rosemary thyme or parsley: offer a fragrant finish pick vibrant green sprigs without wilting
- Potatoes: use large starchy ones like russet or Yukon gold for best texture pick ones without blemishes
- More olive oil: for crisping potatoes
- Dried rosemary: earthy herbiness for the potatoes if possible rub it between fingers to release aroma
- Mixed greens for salad: pick vibrant spinach arugula or romaine
- Cherry tomatoes: look for firm shiny fruits
- Cucumber: firm bright and free from soft spots
- Red onion: thinly sliced for a gentle bite
- Balsamic vinaigrette: premade or homemade both work
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven
- Set oven to four hundred twenty five degrees Fahrenheit two hundred twenty degrees Celsius and allow it to preheat while you prepare everything else
- Season the Chicken
- Mix two tablespoons olive oil with garlic powder onion powder paprika salt and pepper using your hands rub every inch of the chicken including under the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor
- Roast the Chicken
- Place the chicken breast side up in a roasting pan Put it into the hot oven and roast for about one hour and fifteen minutes or until a thermometer inserted in the thickest part reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit seventy five degrees Celsius Remove from oven and let chicken rest uncovered for ten minutes before slicing This keeps the juices locked in
- Prepare the Potatoes
- While chicken cooks toss cubed potatoes with two tablespoons olive oil salt pepper and dried rosemary using your hands to evenly coat
- Roast the Potatoes
- Spread potatoes in a single layer on a sheet pan Slide them into the oven for the last thirty to thirty five minutes of your chicken roast time Potatoes are ready when deeply golden with crisp edges and fluffy insides
- Assemble the Salad
- Combine mixed greens halved cherry tomatoes sliced cucumber and thin red onion in a big salad bowl Just before serving drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss until lightly coated
- Carve and Serve
- Cut the rested chicken into serving pieces Arrange on a platter with the golden roasted potatoes Top with fresh herbs and serve with the salad on the side

Storage Tips
Pack leftovers in airtight containers Once cooled to room temperature keep them in the fridge Roasted chicken and potatoes stay fresh for up to three days Reheat in the oven to restore crispness Salad is best dressed right before eating and does not store well once dressed
Ingredient Substitutions
No whole chicken Use bone in skin on thighs or breasts and shorten roast time Use any fresh herbs you have on hand or swap for dried if necessary Any variety of potato works though starchy ones get crispier Feel free to change up the salad greens or use your favorite dressing

Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken and potatoes family style on a big platter for a classic presentation Warm bread or rolls make it even heartier For a light meal enjoy leftovers cold over mixed greens with a spoonful of vinaigrette
Cultural Context
Roast chicken with potatoes is beloved around the world from French Sunday suppers to Greek family feasts This version draws from timeless techniques ensuring juicy meat and golden skin with minimal fuss
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do you ensure the chicken stays moist during roasting?
Rubbing the chicken with olive oil and seasoning helps lock in moisture. Resting the chicken for 10 minutes after roasting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
- → Can other vegetables be added to the roasted potatoes?
Yes, you can add carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes to roast alongside the potatoes, adjusting the seasoning as desired for extra flavor and color.
- → What type of balsamic vinaigrette works best for the salad?
A classic balsamic vinaigrette with a good balance of acidity and sweetness complements the fresh greens. Homemade or store-bought options both work well.
- → How can the meal be made ahead of time?
The chicken and potatoes can be roasted in advance and gently reheated before serving. Prepare the salad fresh just before eating for best texture and flavor.
- → Is this meal suitable for gluten free diets?
Yes, as long as all seasoning ingredients are gluten free, this meal naturally suits gluten free dietary needs.