Pollo al horno

pollo_al_horno

Pollo al horno, or roasted chicken, is a timeless and classic recipe that has been enjoyed for generations in Spanish homes. This dish is perfect for a Sunday family dinner, but in Spain, it can be served any day of the week. The recipe originates from humble beginnings, where a simple chicken was cooked on a spit above an open fire. Today, variations of the recipe exist, but one thing remains the same – the luscious flavor that makes each bite heavenly.

The ingredients used in Pollo al horno are simple, yet they come together to create a dish that is flavorful and satisfying. One of the most important ingredients is the chicken, which is often seasoned with a blend of herbs, spices, and olive oil to enhance its natural flavor. Other important ingredients include potatoes, onions, garlic, and bell peppers, which are used to create a bed of vegetables that surround the chicken and soak up its juices during the cooking process.

When it comes to preparing Pollo al horno, there are many variations to choose from. Some recipes call for the chicken to be marinated overnight, while others use a spice rub to season the chicken just before it goes into the oven. Some recipes also suggest stuffing the chicken with garlic or lemon wedges, while others recommend placing the chicken on top of a bed of vegetables.

Regardless of the preparation method, the cooking process is always the same. The chicken is roasted in the oven until it is golden brown and crispy on the outside, while the vegetables cook until they are soft and flavorful. The result is a delicious and nutritious meal that is sure to please both adults and children alike.

One of the great things about Pollo al horno is that it is versatile and can be served with a variety of accompaniments. Some cooks choose to serve the roasted chicken with traditional Spanish dishes such as paella or arroz con pollo, while others prefer to serve it with sides like roasted vegetables or a simple salad. In any configuration, this dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family, and will have everyone coming back for seconds.

In conclusion, Pollo al horno is a delicious and classic Spanish recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. Although the recipe has evolved over time, the basic components remain the same – a tender and juicy chicken seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, surrounded by a bed of roasted vegetables that soak up the chicken’s flavorful juices. While it may take a few hours to prepare, this dish is worth the wait and is sure to become a family favorite. So next time you’re in the mood for a comforting and satisfying meal, give this Spanish classic a try – your taste buds will thank you.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken, about 3 pounds
  • 1 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 4 potatoes, peeled and sliced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

  2. In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, white wine, chicken broth, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper to create a marinade.

  3. Take the whole chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a large roasting pan.

  4. Rub the marinade all over the chicken, making sure to get it into every crevice. Cover the chicken with foil and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, up to overnight.

  5. After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

  6. Arrange potato slices, carrot slices, and onion slices around the chicken in the roasting pan.

  7. Place the roasting pan in the oven and roast for 90 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.

  8. Remove the foil from the chicken and continue roasting for 30 more minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden.

  9. Once done, remove the chicken and vegetables from the oven and let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.

  10. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Spanish Pollo al horno!