Easy fried chicken
Treat yourself to a delicious Sunday feast with our easy roast chicken recipe. This succulent dish is sure to impress your guests with its tender and juicy meat. With minimal effort and a few key ingredients, you can create a delicious centerpiece for your lunch table. The golden brown shell provides a delicious crunch, while the juicy flesh ensures every bite is full of flavor. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe guarantees a filling and delicious meal that your loved ones will rave about.
Ingredients
- 1.8-2kg/4lb-4lb 8oz chicken
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 bay leaves
- 50 g butter, soft
- Juice 1 lemon
Preparation steps
- Preheat oven to 220°C/200°C fan/gas 7.
- Place the chicken in a large roasting pan.
- Stuff the garlic and bay leaves into the cavity.
- Rub the outside of the chicken with butter.
- Squeeze the lemon juice over it and place the lemon halves on the inside of the chicken.
- Season inside and out.
- Cook the chicken for 20 minutes.
- Turn the oven down to 190°C/170°C fan/gas 5.
- Cook for another 45 minutes or until the chicken juices run clear when you pierce the thigh with a knife.
- Let rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Nutritional Information
kcal | fat | saturates | carbohydrates | Sugar | fiber | protein | Salt |
564 | 37g | 15g | 0g | 0g | 0g | 57g | 0.59g |
Equipment and tools
Before you begin preparing the easy fried chicken recipe, make sure you have the following equipment and tools:
- A frying pan
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- Aluminum foil
- A meat thermometer
- A pastry brush
Allergen information
Please note the following allergen information for the simple fried chicken recipe:
- Dairy products: The recipe contains butter.
- Garlic: The recipe contains garlic cloves.
Storage and leftovers
If you have leftovers from plain roast chicken, follow these storage guidelines:
- Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
- Place the leftovers in an airtight container.
- Store the chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat leftovers, preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F. Place the chicken in a roasting pan, cover with aluminum foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Health Benefits of Easy Roast Chicken
The classic dish of simple fried chicken not only delights our taste buds but also offers various health benefits. Packed with essential nutrients and vitamins, fried chicken is a nutritious and versatile protein option that can be incorporated into a balanced diet.
1. High quality protein
One serving of plain fried chicken provides a generous amount of high-quality protein. Protein is an essential macronutrient that plays an important role in building and repairing tissue, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining a healthy immune system. Including fried chicken in your diet can help meet your protein needs.
2. Rich in vitamins and minerals
Fried chicken is a good source of various vitamins and minerals that are important for overall health. It is particularly rich in B vitamins such as niacin, which supports energy production, and vitamin B6, which supports brain development and function. Additionally, fried chicken contains minerals such as zinc, iron and selenium, which contribute to a healthy immune system, red blood cell production and antioxidant defense.
3. Low carbohydrates
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, plain fried chicken is an excellent choice. Since this dish contains no added carbohydrates, it is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake.
4. Healthy fats
Using butter in the recipe provides a source of healthy fats. While butter should be consumed in moderation, if used wisely it can be part of a balanced diet. Healthy fats are essential for hormone production, support the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and ensure healthy skin.
5. Antioxidant properties
Although not mentioned in the ingredients list, lemon juice adds a tangy flavor to the fried chicken and provides a dose of vitamin C. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects the body from damage caused by harmful free radicals and supports overall immune function.
When consuming fried chicken, it is important to note that the nutritional content can vary depending on the preparation and cooking method. The fat content can be reduced if desired by removing the skin before consumption. Overall, plain fried chicken offers a delicious and nutritious option that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced and healthy diet.