When you need a delicious dinner in under an hour, this recipe for speedy roasted chicken delivers everything you crave. Succulent, juicy chicken with perfectly browned skin pairs with aromatic garlic and rosemary to create a meal that feels gourmet but fits into your busy schedule.
It’s the ultimate way to enjoy a classic Mediterranean-inspired recipe that’s bursting with bold flavors.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Busy Dinners
Weeknight dinners can be stressful, but this recipe is a lifesaver. Instead of roasting a whole chicken for hours, it uses pre-cut pieces that cook in just 30 minutes.
The quick stovetop browning locks in flavor, while a simple transfer to the oven ensures juicy meat and crispy skin. Plus, the addition of garlic and rosemary elevates this dish into something truly special without requiring extra time or effort.
If you’re entertaining, this roasted chicken is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal prep. You can easily double the recipe for larger gatherings or customize it to suit your family’s preferences.
Tips for Making This Recipe Even Easier
Cooking a speedy roasted chicken doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to simplify the process:
- Pre-season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season it with salt and pepper a few hours in advance. This step enhances the flavor and ensures the skin crisps up beautifully.
- Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh rosemary and garlic to achieve the most vibrant and aromatic flavors.
- Choose the right skillet: An oven-safe skillet is a must for this recipe. Cast iron works best because it retains heat evenly and helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
- Prep ahead: Chop the garlic and measure your wine and chicken stock in advance. This saves time during cooking.
Substitutions & Modifications
This roasted chicken recipe is versatile, making it easy to adapt to various dietary needs or ingredient preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Make it gluten-free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or cornstarch to thicken the gravy.
- Go dairy-free: The recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it perfect for those avoiding lactose.
- Add extra veggies: Toss carrots, onions, or potatoes into the skillet before transferring it to the oven. These vegetables will soak up the delicious juices and make the meal even heartier.
- Herb alternatives: If you’re out of rosemary, thyme is a fantastic substitute. Basil or oregano can also add a Mediterranean twist.
Serving Suggestions for a Complete Dinner
This roasted chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to create a balanced Mediterranean-inspired dinner. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
- Mashed potatoes: The gravy in this recipe is perfect for drizzling over creamy mashed potatoes.
- Side salad: A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken.
- Crusty bread: Use a loaf of fresh baguette to soak up the flavorful pan drippings.
- Roasted vegetables: Combine zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a roasted veggie medley.
- Rice or couscous: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or herbed couscous for an easy yet satisfying side.
Why This Recipe Fits the Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean diet is celebrated for its heart-healthy ingredients and bold flavors, and this recipe fits perfectly into that lifestyle. The use of extra-virgin olive oil, fresh herbs, and garlic provides not only incredible taste but also nutritional benefits.
Olive oil is a great source of healthy fats, while garlic and rosemary are known for their antioxidant properties.
Additionally, the combination of lean protein from the chicken and simple, wholesome ingredients makes this dish a balanced choice for dinner. It’s proof that eating well doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated.
It’s a dinner option that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy schedules. Once you try it, you’ll see why it deserves a place in your recipe rotation.
Speedy Roasted Chicken with Garlic, Rosemary, & Mustard for Dinner
Equipment
- 12-inch oven-safe skillet
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken 3½ to 4 pounds, cut into 8 pieces (or 3½ to 4 pounds of chicken parts), patted dry with paper towels
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt plus more to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 whole garlic bulb halved through the equator to expose the cloves
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ½ cup good dry wine any color is fine
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Dijon mustard for serving
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Chicken: Heat a 12-inch oven-safe skillet over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the halved garlic bulb (cut side down) and half of the rosemary sprigs into the skillet. Lay the chicken pieces skin-side down in the skillet and cook without moving them until the skin is crisp and golden brown, about 5 to 6 minutes.
- Roast in the Oven: Flip the chicken pieces over. Pour the chicken stock and wine around the chicken, being careful not to pour directly onto the skin. Add the remaining rosemary sprigs on top of the chicken for extra flavor. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 15 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. If the white meat finishes cooking before the dark meat, remove it from the skillet, tent it with foil to keep warm, and allow the dark meat to finish cooking.
- Prepare the Gravy: Once the chicken is done, take it out of the skillet and set it aside. Place the skillet back on medium-high heat and use a fork to mash the softened garlic cloves, discarding the skins. Stir the mashed garlic into the skillet’s remaining liquid, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Whisk in the flour and let the mixture simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Serve: Arrange the chicken on a serving plate and drizzle with the prepared gravy. Add a dollop of Dijon mustard on the side and sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish.
Notes
- Serve alongside mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- If you prefer skipping the gravy, roasted garlic and mustard are flavorful accompaniments on their own.
- Adjust the wine type based on preference; dry white or red works well.
Don’t Miss These:
Easy Japanese Dinner: Fluffy Omelet & Edamame Rice
Green Eggs, No Ham: Baked Eggs with Spinach, Leeks & Feta
Spice Up Dinner with South Indian Poached Eggs
Easy Chilaquiles for Dinner with Tangy Tomatillo Salsa
A Flavorful Twist on the Classic Spanish Tortilla Recipe
Golden Tomato Shakshuka with Goat Cheese for Easy Dinners
Quick Sesame Chicken Recipe to Simplify Your Dinner Routine
Seafood Dinner Recipe: Perfect Soft-Shell Crabs at Home
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.