How to Make Spanish Pollo al Horno con Verduras: Oven-Roasted Chicken with Vegetables

How to Make Spanish Pollo al Horno con Verduras: Oven-Roasted Chicken with Vegetables

• Introduction to Pollo al Horno con Verduras
• Ingredients for Spanish Pollo al Horno
• Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pollo al Horno
• Tips for Perfect Pollo al Horno with Vegetables
• Serving Ideas and Pairings

1. Introduction to Pollo al Horno con Verduras

Pollo al Horno con Verduras, or oven-roasted chicken with vegetables, is a traditional Spanish dish that combines the delicious flavors of tender roasted chicken with a medley of seasonal vegetables. This dish is simple to prepare but incredibly flavorful, making it a staple in many Spanish households. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for a family meal or a dinner party.

In Spain, pollo al horno is often enjoyed as a comforting, hearty meal, especially on weekends or during festive occasions. The combination of chicken, olive oil, garlic, and vegetables creates a wholesome and satisfying dish that embodies the heart of Spanish cooking. Let’s explore how to make this flavorful and wholesome dish at home.

Casa de Raku

Las VegasClark CountyNevada

5040 W Spring Mountain Rd Suite #3, Las Vegas, NV 89146, USA

2. Ingredients for Spanish Pollo al Horno

To make an authentic Spanish Pollo al Horno con Verduras, you’ll need the following ingredients. These ingredients are simple, but when combined, they create a dish full of depth and flavor.

Eatatblue

Queens CountyNew York

82-63 Broadway, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA

2.1 Main Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds), cut into pieces
• 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 carrots, peeled and cut into rounds
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 yellow onion, peeled and cut into wedges
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)

2.2 Seasoning

• Olive oil (about 3 tablespoons)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a Spanish touch)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 lemon, halved (for extra flavor and moisture)
• 1 cup white wine or chicken broth (for roasting)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pollo al Horno

Now that you have your ingredients ready, follow these simple steps to prepare the dish:

3.1 Preparing the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, prepare the chicken pieces by washing them and patting them dry with paper towels. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and minced garlic. Drizzle some olive oil over the chicken to coat it evenly, and then rub the seasonings into the meat. If you like, you can stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon halves for added moisture and flavor.

3.2 Preparing the Vegetables

While the chicken is being seasoned, prepare the vegetables. Place the cut potatoes, carrots, bell pepper, and onion in a large roasting pan. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of oregano. Toss the vegetables until evenly coated in oil and seasonings.

3.3 Roasting the Chicken and Vegetables

Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables in the roasting pan. Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the bottom of the pan, ensuring there is enough liquid to prevent the vegetables from burning. Roast the chicken and vegetables in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked (an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C). Halfway through, use a spoon to baste the chicken with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful.

3.4 Resting and Serving

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the roasting pan from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, making it even more tender and juicy.

4. Tips for Perfect Pollo al Horno with Vegetables

For the best results, keep these tips in mind when making Pollo al Horno con Verduras:

4.1 Choose High-Quality Chicken

For the best flavor, opt for free-range or organic chicken. These birds have a more robust flavor and are often more tender than factory-farmed chicken.

4.2 Use Fresh, Seasonal Vegetables

Fresh, seasonal vegetables will bring out the best flavors in this dish. In the spring and summer, you can experiment with adding vegetables like zucchini or tomatoes, while root vegetables like parsnips and turnips work well in the cooler months.

4.3 Don’t Skip the Basting

During the roasting process, basting the chicken with its own juices helps keep it moist and enhances the flavor. Make sure to do this halfway through the cooking time for optimal results.

4.4 Let the Chicken Rest

Let the chicken rest after roasting to ensure it remains juicy and flavorful. This step is essential for achieving the best texture and flavor.

5. Serving Ideas and Pairings

Pollo al Horno con Verduras is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are some serving suggestions:

5.1 Pairing with Spanish Wine

A glass of Spanish red wine, such as Rioja or Tempranillo, is the perfect companion for this flavorful roasted chicken dish. The wine’s bold flavors complement the richness of the chicken and vegetables.

5.2 Side Dishes

For a complete Spanish meal, serve the pollo al horno with a side of Spanish rice, a simple green salad, or pan con tomate (tomato bread). You could also add a side of sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus for extra flavor.

5.3 Garnishing with Fresh Herbs

To elevate the dish, garnish the roasted chicken with fresh rosemary or thyme before serving. This adds a pop of color and a fragrant aroma that enhances the overall dining experience.