Garlic Butter Roast Chicken with Tomatoes and Giant Couscous: A Mediterranean Delight
Introduction:
Indulge in the aromatic flavors of the Mediterranean with a succulent garlic butter roast chicken accompanied by juicy tomatoes and fluffy giant couscous. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with tantalizing flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
* 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
* 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
* 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 6 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Tomatoes:
* 1 pound cherry tomatoes
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Giant Couscous:
* 1 cup giant couscous
* 2 cups chicken broth
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, combine the butter, parsley, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Loosen the skin of the chicken and rub the butter mixture underneath. Season the chicken inside and out with salt and pepper.
2. Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken on a roasting rack set over a baking sheet. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
3. Prepare the Tomatoes: While the chicken roasts, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the tomatoes on a separate baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until they are bursting and slightly caramelized.
4. Cook the Giant Couscous: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the giant couscous and stir. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the couscous is tender. Fluff with a fork.
5. Combine and Serve: Carve the chicken and arrange it on a serving platter. Spoon the roasted tomatoes over the chicken. Scatter the giant couscous around the chicken and garnish with chopped basil and mint.
Tips:
* For a crispier chicken skin, baste the chicken with the pan juices every 15 minutes during roasting.
* Add other vegetables to the roasting pan, such as potatoes, carrots, or onions, for a complete meal.
* Leftover garlic butter roast chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Conclusion:
Garlic butter roast chicken with tomatoes and giant couscous is a culinary masterpiece that combines the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and tomatoes with the fluffy texture of giant couscous. It is a perfect meal for any occasion, from family gatherings to special celebrations. Impress your guests with this delectable dish that is sure to become a family favorite.