Roast Chicken with Mashed Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Roast Chicken with Mashed Potatoes is the epitome of comfort food. Whether it’s a Sunday family dinner, a holiday meal, or just a weeknight indulgence, this combination never fails to please. The crispy, golden skin of a perfectly roasted chicken, paired with the creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes, creates a meal that is both hearty and satisfying. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—while the roast chicken requires some care and attention, the mashed potatoes come together effortlessly, making this meal feel special yet easy enough for anyone to recreate.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of preparing both roast chicken and mashed potatoes from scratch. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is approachable and provides delicious results every time. The key is in the details—from selecting the right chicken and seasonings to ensuring the mashed potatoes are smooth and velvety. Follow these instructions, and you’ll have a homemade feast to be proud of.

Why You’ll Love Roast Chicken with Mashed Potatoes

• Tender, Juicy Chicken: A perfectly roasted chicken has crispy, golden skin and juicy, tender meat. The seasoning and roasting process lock in the flavors and create a dish that’s full of depth.
• Creamy, Buttery Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. When made with butter, cream, and the right seasoning, they become a velvety side dish that complements the chicken perfectly.
• One-Pan Meal: You can roast the chicken and vegetables all in one pan, saving time on cleanup while allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a holiday celebration, roast chicken with mashed potatoes is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s a dish that everyone can enjoy and that brings people together.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few basic ingredients—chicken, potatoes, butter, garlic, herbs, and seasonings—you can create a meal that feels both homey and elegant.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 600-700 calories, depending on portion sizes and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 600-700 kcal
• Fat: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 5g

Ingredients

For the Roast Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 head of garlic, halved
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley) for stuffing
• 1 onion, quartered (optional, for roasting alongside the chicken)
• 1 cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture during roasting)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 lbs russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold potatoes)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream (or whole milk for a lighter version)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional for added flavor)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Roast Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help the chicken skin crisp up while keeping the meat juicy.

Remove the giblets and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken helps to achieve a crispy skin. Once dry, rub the entire chicken with olive oil or melted butter, making sure to coat the chicken evenly.

Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Be sure to rub the seasonings both on the outside and inside the cavity of the chicken. If you’re using fresh herbs, stuff them inside the chicken along with the halved lemon and garlic. These ingredients will infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors as it roasts.

Optionally, place a few quartered onions in the roasting pan around the chicken to enhance the flavor. If you have chicken broth, pour it into the bottom of the roasting pan to create a moist environment for the chicken while it cooks. This step also adds some extra flavor that will blend into the chicken drippings, which are perfect for making gravy later.

2. Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken in the oven and roast it for about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The skin should be golden brown and crispy.

To ensure even cooking, check the chicken halfway through and baste it with the pan juices. This will keep the chicken moist and add extra flavor to the skin. If you find the chicken skin is getting too dark, tent the chicken with foil and continue roasting until fully cooked.

When the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. Resting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender and flavorful.

3. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the chicken is roasting, you can prepare the mashed potatoes. Begin by peeling the potatoes (or leave the skins on if you prefer rustic mashed potatoes). Cut the potatoes into equal-sized chunks to ensure they cook evenly.

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water to season the potatoes while they cook. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them well and return them to the pot. Allow them to sit for a minute to let off any excess steam. This step helps the potatoes absorb the butter and cream more effectively.

4. Mash the Potatoes

For creamy mashed potatoes, use a potato masher or a ricer to mash the potatoes until smooth. If you prefer a slightly chunkier texture, you can leave a few lumps.

Add the butter to the hot potatoes and stir until it melts completely. Then, pour in the heavy cream (or milk if you’re using it) gradually, stirring to incorporate until the potatoes are smooth and velvety. If you prefer a richer, creamier texture, you can add a bit more butter or cream.

Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra burst of flavor, you can stir in minced garlic or chopped fresh herbs like parsley.

5. Serve the Roast Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

Once the chicken has rested and the mashed potatoes are ready, it’s time to serve! Carve the chicken, starting with the legs and thighs, and then slicing the breast meat. Arrange the chicken on a platter and serve it alongside the creamy mashed potatoes. Garnish the potatoes with fresh parsley for an added touch of color and flavor.

You can also drizzle the chicken with the pan juices for extra flavor, or serve it with gravy made from the chicken drippings.

Tips for Perfect Roast Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

• For Crispy Skin: To ensure a crispy skin on the chicken, make sure the bird is as dry as possible before roasting. Pat it dry with paper towels and avoid covering it with foil during the cooking process.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you choose to roast vegetables along with the chicken, make sure there’s enough room for air to circulate around the bird. Overcrowding the pan can result in uneven cooking and soggy vegetables.
• Rest the Chicken: Always let the chicken rest for at least 10 minutes after roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
• Mashed Potato Consistency: If your mashed potatoes are too thick, add more cream or milk, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If they’re too thin, you can add a bit more butter or even some cream cheese for extra richness.
• Flavor Variations: Try adding different herbs and seasonings to the chicken. Fresh rosemary, sage, or thyme can infuse the chicken with an aromatic flavor. For the mashed potatoes, you can experiment with roasted garlic, parmesan cheese, or even a little cream cheese for extra tang.

Variations of Roast Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

• Lemon Herb Chicken: Add extra lemon zest and fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley to the chicken for a bright, fresh flavor.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast a bulb of garlic along with the chicken and add the soft, caramelized garlic to the mashed potatoes for a rich, savory flavor.
• Spicy Roasted Chicken: For a spicier kick, rub the chicken with chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Serve with mashed potatoes that have a hint of sour cream and chives for balance.
• Vegetable Sides: Add roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts to the meal. The sweet and savory vegetables pair perfectly with the chicken and mashed potatoes.

Storage and Shelf Life

• Storing Roast Chicken: Leftover roast chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.
• Storing Mashed Potatoes: Mashed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore their creamy texture.
• Freezing Mashed Potatoes: If you want to store mashed potatoes for a longer period, you can freeze them. Spoon the mashed potatoes into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Roast Chicken and Mashed Potatoes

While roast chicken with mashed potatoes is a complete meal on its own, you can elevate it with these delicious side dishes:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts are a great way to add more flavor and color to the plate.
• Gravy: For extra richness, make a simple gravy using the chicken drippings. Add some flour to the drippings to thicken, then whisk in chicken broth or cream for a silky, smooth sauce.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance the richness of the chicken and mashed potatoes.
• Cranberry Sauce: Especially for holiday meals, a sweet and tart cranberry sauce provides a perfect contrast to the savory flavors of the chicken and potatoes.

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Conclusion

Roast Chicken with Mashed Potatoes is a timeless, comforting meal that never disappoints. The crispy, golden chicken paired with creamy, buttery mashed potatoes creates the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this meal is sure to satisfy and impress. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious, home-cooked feast that will become a family favorite for years to come.