Irresistible Roast Chicken with Cheesy Creamed Spinach and Squashed New Potatoes

Roast Chicken with Squashed New Potatoes and Cheesy Creamed Spinach

Introduction:
Indulge in a delectable symphony of flavors with this mouthwatering roast chicken accompanied by tender squashed new potatoes and a velvety cheesy creamed spinach. This culinary masterpiece is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a nourishment for your soul.

Ingredients:

For the Roast Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary

For the Squashed New Potatoes:
- 1 pound new potatoes, scrubbed and quartered
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Cheesy Creamed Spinach:
- 1 pound fresh spinach, washed and coarsely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

For the Roast Chicken:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine the chicken with the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and tuck in the lemon halves, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Roast for 75-90 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.

For the Squashed New Potatoes:
1. In another bowl, combine the potatoes with the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet and roast alongside the chicken for 45-60 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
3. Sprinkle with the chopped parsley.

For the Cheesy Creamed Spinach:
1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until thickened.
5. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Plating and Serving:
1. Carve the chicken and arrange it on a platter.
2. Surround the chicken with the squashed new potatoes.
3. Pour the cheesy creamed spinach over the chicken and potatoes.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors.

Tips:

* For a crispy chicken skin, pat the chicken dry before roasting.
* Roast the chicken on a wire rack placed over the roasting pan to allow for even cooking and crispy skin.
* If the potatoes start to brown too much, cover them with foil for the remaining roasting time.
* To make the creamed spinach extra creamy, use heavy cream instead of milk.

Conclusion:
This roast chicken with squashed new potatoes and cheesy creamed spinach is a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your loved ones. Its perfect balance of savory and creamy flavors, along with the tender meat and crispy potatoes, makes it a dish that will be remembered and cherished. So gather your family and friends, prepare this delectable meal, and create cherished memories around the dinner table.