Roast Chicken Italiana
A flavorful roast chicken seasoned with fresh herbs and tomato, featuring a juicy interior and crispy skin, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle the outside and cavity of the chicken with salt, pepper, and onion powder.
- Place the chicken on a rack in a roasting pan.
- In a blender, combine parsley, basil leaves, poultry seasoning, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and tomato juice.
- Run the blender at medium speed for 1 minute or until the mixture is smooth.
- Brush the chicken with the tomato-herb mixture.
- Roast the chicken at 375°F (moderate oven) for 2 hours and 20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked throughout (drumstick moves easily).
- Remove the chicken from the oven and serve garnished with parsley.
- Remove the skin before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the tomato-herb mixture for a few hours or overnight before roasting. If you don't have fresh parsley, you can substitute it with 1/2 cup of dried parsley. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F for safe consumption. This recipe pairs beautifully with Hearty Italian Bean Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the roast chicken garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant look. It pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables or a simple salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Fettuccine Rene or Chicken Alla Parmigiana for a delightful Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover roast chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook, as it may become dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Roast Chicken Italiana contains roughly 211 calories, with 11g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of herb instead of parsley?
Yes, you can substitute parsley with other herbs like cilantro or thyme for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that the taste will vary, and it may not have the same traditional Italian flair as parsley.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced.
Can I roast the chicken at a different temperature?
While roasting at 375°F is recommended for even cooking, you can roast at 350°F for a longer time or at 400°F for a shorter time. Just ensure to monitor the chicken closely to avoid drying it out.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).