A classic American dinner recipe: Homestyle Roast Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

 

Introduction:

Indulge in the heartwarming embrace of a time-honoured American tradition with our Classic Roast Chicken accompanied by velvety Mashed Potatoes and rich Gravy. This cherished culinary trio captures the essence of comfort and nostalgia, conjuring memories of family gatherings and cosy Sunday suppers. The tender and flavourful roast chicken, adorned with a medley of aromatic herbs and zesty citrus, takes centre stage as a symbol of warmth and togetherness. Complemented by creamy, buttery mashed potatoes and crowned with a luscious gravy that tells a story of culinary mastery, this wholesome meal invites you to savour every bite. Whether served on special occasions or as a cherished weeknight ritual, this beloved dish encapsulates the essence of classic American dining—a symphony of flavours that nourishes both body and soul. Join us on a journey to relish the simplicity and delight of a meal that has graced tables for generations, offering a taste of tradition that never goes out of style.

Ingredients: For the Roast Chicken:

·         1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)

·         2 tablespoons butter, softened

·         2 teaspoons salt

·         1 teaspoon black pepper

·         1 teaspoon paprika

·         1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary

·         1 lemon, halved

·         4-5 garlic cloves, peeled

·         For the Mashed Potatoes:

·         4-5 large potatoes, peeled and quartered

·         1/2 cup milk

·         4 tablespoons butter

·         Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy:

·         Pan drippings from the roasted chicken

·         2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

·         1 cup chicken broth

·         Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Roast Chicken:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Rinse the chicken inside and out, then pat it dry with paper towels.

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme or rosemary. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.

Stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon halves and garlic cloves.

Place the chicken on a roasting pan or in a baking dish, breast side up.

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the chicken with pan juices every 30 minutes.

Mashed Potatoes:

While the chicken is roasting, place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot of cold, salted water.

Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they're fork-tender about 15-20 minutes.

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

Add the milk and butter to the potatoes and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.

Gravy:

Once the chicken is done roasting, remove it from the roasting pan and let it rest on a cutting board, covered with aluminium foil.

Pour the pan drippings through a strainer into a bowl to remove any solids.

Place the roasting pan on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a couple of tablespoons of the strained drippings and the flour. Stir and cook for a minute to create a roux.

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and the remaining strained drippings. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens and is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

Carve the roasted chicken and serve it with the mashed potatoes and gravy.

Enjoy your delicious Homestyle Roast Chicken with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, a true American comfort food classic!