Roast Chicken and Kale

Introduction

Let’s talk about the ultimate comfort meal: roast chicken with crispy, golden skin and tender, juicy meat paired with earthy, nutrient-packed kale. There’s something heartwarming about a perfectly roasted chicken that makes any evening feel special, but it’s also simple enough for a midweek meal. And when you add kale to the mix, you get a dish that’s delicious and packed with goodness. The kale soaks up all the chicken drippings, transforming into something magical with each bite.

This roast chicken recipe is perfect if you’re a bit intimidated by roasting a whole bird. I remember my first time roasting chicken—it felt like a big deal! But once I discovered this foolproof method, it became my go-to, especially when I want something wholesome but not complicated. The kale is tossed around the chicken in the same pan, which means fewer dishes and loads of flavor. My family loves it, and I can honestly say it’s become one of our “regulars.” Give it a try, and I’m sure it’ll win you over, too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are a few reasons why this roast chicken and kale recipe is a must-try:

• One-Pan Wonder: This recipe requires only one roasting pan, making it super convenient with minimal cleanup.
• Full of Flavor: The chicken juices flavor the kale, making it taste amazing and giving it a crispy, roasted texture.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from the kale, this meal is as nourishing as it is tasty.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy ingredients here! Just a handful of kitchen staples come together to create something delicious.
• Great for All Levels: Even if you’re new to roasting, this recipe is straightforward with easy steps and helpful tips to guide you along.

With crispy, golden skin, tender chicken meat, and perfectly roasted kale, this dish is a feast for the senses. Plus, it’s perfect for meal-prepping or feeding a crowd without any fuss.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60-75 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Nutrition Facts

• Calories per serving: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 20g

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds), cleaned and patted dry
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, halved
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme or rosemary (optional but adds great flavor)
• 1 large bunch of kale, roughly chopped (about 4-5 cups)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (optional, for extra moisture if needed)

Ingredient Notes:

• Chicken: A whole chicken works best for roasting, ensuring juicy meat and a rich, flavorful experience.
• Kale: Lacinato (dinosaur) kale works well as it holds up during roasting. It crisps up beautifully while absorbing all the flavors.
• Lemon and Garlic: These two create an aromatic base for the chicken, adding a zesty brightness and rich flavor.
• Olive Oil: Helps in crisping up the skin and getting that beautiful golden color.
• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or thyme are great choices, but you can skip them if you don’t have them on hand.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature gives the chicken a crispy, golden skin while keeping it tender inside.

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Place the chicken in a roasting pan or large oven-safe dish.
• Rub the chicken all over with olive oil. This will help the skin crisp up and get a nice, golden color.
• Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Don’t forget to season inside the cavity as well.
• Place the lemon halves and garlic cloves inside the cavity. Add the thyme or rosemary sprigs if you have them.

3. Arrange the Kale

• Scatter the chopped kale around the chicken in the roasting pan. Drizzle a little olive oil over the kale and toss to coat.
• Season the kale lightly with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor.
• For extra moisture, pour a little chicken broth or water around the kale (optional, but it helps prevent the kale from drying out too much and adds flavor).

4. Roast the Chicken

• Place the pan in the preheated oven and roast for about 60-75 minutes. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your chicken.
• About halfway through cooking, give the kale a quick stir so it doesn’t stick or burn. This also allows it to absorb more flavor from the chicken drippings.
• Check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken (avoiding the bone). The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

5. Rest the Chicken

• Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven. Carefully transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat juicy.

6. Serve

• After resting, carve the chicken. You’ll have beautifully crispy skin and juicy meat ready to enjoy!
• Serve with a generous portion of roasted kale on the side.

How to Serve

This roast chicken and kale is so versatile; here are some serving ideas:

• Serve with mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes for a classic combo.
• Add a side of crusty bread to soak up all those delicious chicken drippings.
• Pair with a light salad of arugula or spinach with a lemon vinaigrette.
• Serve as a hearty sandwich filling: Shred the chicken and serve on toasted buns with some roasted kale.

No matter how you serve it, this roast chicken and kale will shine on your table.

Additional Tips

1. Pat the Chicken Dry

• Ensure the chicken is completely dry before applying the olive oil. This step helps achieve that crispy, golden skin.

2. Massage the Kale with Oil

• When adding the kale to the pan, give it a good massage with olive oil to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out too much.

3. Use a Meat Thermometer

• A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the breast for perfect doneness.

4. Let the Chicken Rest

• Letting the chicken rest after cooking keeps it juicy, as the juices will settle back into the meat. Ten minutes is usually perfect.

5. Try Different Seasonings

• Switch things up by adding spices like paprika, garlic powder, or a bit of cumin to your chicken rub. These spices add depth without overpowering the dish.

Recipe Variations

This recipe is versatile, and you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences:

• Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the kale for a bit of heat.
• Vegetable Mix: Add baby potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts around the chicken for a one-pan meal with extra roasted veggies.
• Lemon-Herb Marinade: Marinate the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs for at least an hour before roasting to add an extra layer of flavor.
• Garlic Lover’s Version: Add extra garlic cloves around the chicken and kale to roast, creating a mellow garlic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Complete your roast chicken and kale with these side ideas:

• Mashed Cauliflower or Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the savory juices.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips add a seasonal, hearty element.
• Light Salad: A crisp, green salad with a lemony dressing balances the richness of the roast chicken.
• Grain Bowl: For a balanced meal, serve the chicken and kale over a bowl of quinoa, farro, or rice.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover chicken and kale in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken in portions for up to 3 months. The kale doesn’t freeze well but can be stored for a day or two.
• Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warm, or microwave on medium power to retain moisture.

Special Equipment

• Roasting Pan or Large Baking Dish: A sturdy pan helps achieve even cooking and keeps everything in one place.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures the chicken reaches the correct internal temperature for safe, juicy results.
• Tongs: Handy for tossing the kale halfway through roasting.

FAQ

1. Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces like thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time to around 30-45 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. Chicken thighs and drumsticks will yield juicy, flavorful results with slightly less cooking time than a whole chicken.

2. Can I use other greens besides kale?
Absolutely! Swiss chard, collard greens, or spinach work well in this recipe. If you’re using spinach, add it toward the end of cooking (the last 10-15 minutes) to avoid overcooking since spinach wilts much faster than kale.

3. Do I have to add chicken broth or water to the pan?
Adding a little broth or water around the kale is optional but can help prevent the greens from getting too crispy or dry. It also creates a bit of steam, which can make the chicken even juicier.

4. What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?
No problem! You can use dried herbs like thyme or rosemary instead. Substitute 1/2 teaspoon of dried herbs for every 1 teaspoon of fresh herbs. You could also skip them altogether, and the chicken will still be delicious.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Roast the chicken and kale, then let it cool before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes or microwave it on medium power. Keep in mind the kale may lose some of its crispiness upon reheating.

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Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate Roast Chicken and Kale recipe that’s simple, nourishing, and packed with flavor. Roasting a whole chicken might seem intimidating, but once you try it, you’ll see just how easy and rewarding it can be. With golden, crispy skin, tender, juicy meat, and flavorful, roasted kale, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Not only does this recipe make for a satisfying meal, but it’s also versatile enough for family dinners, special occasions, or even weekly meal prep. It’s one-pan, so clean-up is a breeze, and the ingredients are easy to find and customize based on what you have on hand.

Give it a try, and let this roast chicken and kale be your go-to comfort meal. And remember, the beauty of cooking lies in the little adjustments you make to suit your tastes—feel free to experiment with herbs, spices, or even different greens. Enjoy the process and the delicious reward at the end. Happy roasting!