Roast & Bake

Roast Chicken With Potatoes

Name: Roast Chicken With Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 70 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs); 2 large potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons butter

By Wren Merriweather · June 19, 2026 · Roast & Bake

Prep20 min

Cook50 min

Total70 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made a roast chicken with potatoes for my family. It was a Sunday evening, and the aroma of roasting chicken and potatoes filled the entire house, making everyone's mouth water in anticipation. The best part? It was incredibly easy to make, and the leftovers were just as delicious the next day. Since then, this dish has become a staple in our household, and I'm excited to share the recipe with you.

There's something special about a roast chicken that's hard to replicate with other dishes. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy skin, and flavorful potatoes is a match made in heaven. And the best part? You can customize it to your taste with your favorite herbs and spices. In this recipe, I'll show you how to make a simple yet impressive roast chicken with potatoes that's sure to become a family favorite.

One of the things I love about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it as a main course, or use the leftovers to make sandwiches, salads, or soups. It's also a great dish to make for a crowd, as it's easy to scale up or down depending on the number of guests. And, of course, it's perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in with the family.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making a delicious roast chicken with potatoes. From preparation to cooking, I'll share my tips and tricks for achieving the perfect golden-brown chicken and crispy potatoes. So, let's get started!

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. It's easy to follow, and the results are well worth the effort. So, go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors of a home-cooked roast chicken with potatoes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
The dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
The leftovers can be used to make a variety of other dishes, such as sandwiches or salads.
The recipe is customizable to your taste, so you can add your favorite herbs and spices.
The dish is budget-friendly and can be made with ingredients you likely already have on hand.
The recipe is perfect for a crowd, as it's easy to scale up or down depending on the number of guests.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great roast chicken is to cook it at the right temperature, with the right amount of moisture, and with the right seasonings. In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of olive oil, butter, and chicken broth to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. We'll also be adding some aromatics like onion, garlic, and thyme to give the chicken a depth of flavor.

The potatoes are also an important part of this dish. We'll be cutting them into wedges and tossing them in olive oil, salt, and pepper to bring out their natural sweetness. By cooking them in the oven with the chicken, we'll be able to achieve a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the resting time. After the chicken is cooked, we'll be letting it rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. This will make the chicken even more tender and juicy, and it will also make it easier to carve.

Finally, the seasonings we use will also play a big role in the flavor of the dish. We'll be using a combination of salt, pepper, and thyme to add depth and complexity to the chicken and potatoes. By using these simple yet effective seasonings, we'll be able to create a dish that's both delicious and impressive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a great roast chicken with potatoes, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of fresh and pantry staples to create a dish that's both delicious and impressive. From the chicken and potatoes to the aromatics and seasonings, every ingredient plays a crucial role in the flavor and texture of the final dish.

Here are the ingredients you'll need to make this recipe. Be sure to choose the freshest and highest-quality ingredients you can find, as they will make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the dish.

1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)Choose a fresh, plump chicken with no visible signs of damage or bruising. If you can't find a whole chicken, you can also use chicken pieces such as legs, thighs, and breasts.
2 large potatoesChoose potatoes that are high in starch, such as Russet or Idaho, for the best results. You can also use other types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but they may not yield the same crispy exterior.
2 tablespoons olive oilUse a high-quality olive oil that has a mild flavor and a high smoke point. This will help to prevent the oil from burning or smoking during cooking.
1 onion, choppedChoose a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor. You can also use other types of onions, such as yellow or white onions, but they may not be as sweet.
3 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use jarred garlic or garlic powder as a substitute, but the flavor may not be as intense.
1 teaspoon dried thymeChoose fresh or dried thyme for the best flavor. You can also use other herbs, such as rosemary or sage, but thyme is the most traditional choice for roast chicken.
1 teaspoon saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. Avoid using table salt, as it can be too fine and may not provide the same texture.
1/2 teaspoon black pepperUse freshly ground black pepper for the best flavor. You can also use pre-ground pepper, but the flavor may not be as intense.
1/4 cup chicken brothUse low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor. You can also use homemade chicken broth or stock, but be sure to skim off any excess fat before using.
2 tablespoons butterUse high-quality butter, such as unsalted or European-style, for the best flavor. You can also use other types of fat, such as olive oil or coconut oil, but butter provides the best flavor and texture.

Ingredients for Roast Chicken With Potatoes

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy roasting panSharp chef's knifeInstant-read thermometerCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Roast Chicken With Potatoes

1
Preheat your oven to 425 F (220 C). Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels, then season it with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2
Cut the potatoes into wedges and toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3
In a large roasting pan, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, and chicken broth. Place the chicken in the pan, breast side up, and put the pan in the oven.
4
Roast the chicken for 20 minutes, then add the potatoes to the pan and continue roasting for another 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
5
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken in the thickest part of the breast. If it's not yet at 165 F (74 C), continue roasting for a few more minutes and checking the temperature until it reaches the safe minimum.
6
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender and juicy.
7
While the chicken is resting, toss the potatoes in the pan to coat them with the juices and fat. Return the pan to the oven and continue roasting the potatoes for another 10-15 minutes, or until they're crispy and golden brown.
8
Remove the pan from the oven and add the butter to the potatoes. Toss the potatoes to coat them with the butter, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
9
Carve the chicken and serve it with the potatoes and pan juices. You can also serve with your favorite sides, such as steamed vegetables or a green salad.
10
Let the chicken and potatoes cool completely before refrigerating or freezing them. This will help to prevent bacterial growth and keep the food safe to eat.

Expert Tips

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Don't overcrowd the pan, as this can prevent the chicken and potatoes from cooking evenly.
Let the chicken rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving, as this will help the juices to redistribute and the chicken to stay moist.
Use high-quality ingredients, such as fresh herbs and real butter, for the best flavor.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to find the combination that you like best.
Let the chicken and potatoes cool completely before refrigerating or freezing them, as this will help to prevent bacterial growth and keep the food safe to eat.
Consider using a cast-iron skillet or other oven-safe pan to cook the chicken and potatoes, as this will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the food from sticking to the pan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not letting the chicken rest for long enough, which can cause the juices to run out and the chicken to become dry.
Overcrowding the pan, which can prevent the chicken and potatoes from cooking evenly.
Not using a meat thermometer, which can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not letting the chicken and potatoes cool completely before refrigerating or freezing them, which can lead to bacterial growth and foodborne illness.
Not experimenting with different seasonings and herbs to find the combination that you like best.

Variations and Substitutions

Try using different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon Golds, for a unique flavor and texture.
Add some diced bell peppers or carrots to the pan with the onion and garlic for added flavor and nutrients.
Use different herbs and spices, such as rosemary or paprika, to give the chicken and potatoes a unique flavor.
Add some lemon juice or zest to the pan for a burst of citrus flavor.
Try using chicken broth or stock instead of water for added flavor and moisture.
Use a mixture of olive oil and butter for a rich and flavorful sauce.
Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, to the potatoes for added flavor and color.

What to Serve With Roast Chicken With Potatoes

This roast chicken with potatoes is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides and sauces. Some ideas include steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. You could also serve the chicken and potatoes with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, for a hearty and satisfying meal.

If you want to add a little extra flavor to the dish, you could try serving it with a side of gravy or sauce. Some ideas include a simple chicken gravy made with pan drippings and flour, or a creamy sauce made with butter, cream, and herbs. You could also serve the chicken and potatoes with a side of warm bread or rolls, such as crusty baguette or soft dinner rolls.

Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beansA simple green salad with a light vinaigretteRoasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrotsWarm bread or rolls, such as crusty baguette or soft dinner rollsA side of gravy or sauce, such as a simple chicken gravy or a creamy sauce made with butter and herbsA side of roasted potatoes, such as diced or wedged potatoes

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Once the chicken and potatoes have cooled, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply place the chicken and potatoes in a covered container and refrigerate at 40 F (4 C) or below. You can also freeze the chicken and potatoes for up to 3-4 months. Simply place the chicken and potatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze at 0 F (-18 C) or below.

To reheat the chicken and potatoes, simply place them in the oven at 350 F (180 C) for 10-15 minutes, or until they're heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the chicken. It's also a good idea to let the chicken and potatoes come to room temperature before reheating, as this will help to prevent the formation of bacteria and keep the food safe to eat.

When reheating the chicken and potatoes, you can also add a little extra moisture to the dish to keep it from drying out. Some ideas include adding a splash of chicken broth or stock, or a pat of butter to the pan. You could also try covering the pan with foil to help retain the moisture and heat.

Finally, be sure to always handle and store the chicken and potatoes safely to prevent foodborne illness. This includes washing your hands thoroughly before and after handling the chicken, and making sure to cook the chicken to a safe internal temperature. By following these tips, you can enjoy a delicious and safe meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to cook a roast chicken?

The best way to cook a roast chicken is to use a combination of high heat and moisture to achieve a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. This can be achieved by roasting the chicken in the oven with some aromatics and fat, such as onion, garlic, and butter.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The best way to know when the chicken is cooked is to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The internal temperature of the chicken should be at least 165 F (74 C) in the thickest part of the breast.

Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of potatoes for this recipe. Some good options include Russet, Idaho, Yukon Gold, and sweet potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed to achieve the best results.

How do I store leftover chicken and potatoes?

The best way to store leftover chicken and potatoes is to let them cool completely, then refrigerate or freeze them in a covered container. Be sure to label the container with the date and contents, and to use the leftovers within a few days or freeze them for later use.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken and potatoes as directed, then let them cool completely. Refrigerate or freeze the leftovers, then reheat them as needed. You can also prepare the ingredients ahead of time, such as chopping the onion and garlic, and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook.

What are some variations on this recipe?

Some variations on this recipe include using different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon Golds, or adding other ingredients to the pan, such as diced bell peppers or carrots. You could also try using different herbs and spices, such as rosemary or paprika, to give the chicken and potatoes a unique flavor.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

The best way to prevent the chicken from drying out is to use a combination of high heat and moisture to achieve a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. This can be achieved by roasting the chicken in the oven with some aromatics and fat, such as onion, garlic, and butter. You can also try covering the pan with foil to help retain the moisture and heat.

What are some good sides to serve with this recipe?

Some good sides to serve with this recipe include steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette. You could also serve the chicken and potatoes with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Can I use this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, you can use this recipe for a crowd. Simply multiply the ingredients as needed to feed the number of people you're serving, and adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed to achieve the best results. You can also try preparing the ingredients ahead of time, such as chopping the onion and garlic, to make the cooking process easier and more efficient.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card