Few dishes feel as comforting and satisfying as a beautifully roasted chicken surrounded by caramelized vegetables. The photo captures precisely that: crisp, golden chicken skin glistening with herbs, baby carrots roasted to sweetness, tender zucchini, and perfectly browned potatoes. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, wholesome meal using slow-roasting and fresh herbs. It’s rustic, homely, and elegant all at once — ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in.

Let’s create this masterpiece step by step.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Herb-Roasted Chicken

• 4 chicken legs or thighs (bone-in, skin-on)

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp melted butter

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh leaves)

• 1 tsp dried rosemary

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Optional: a few sprigs of fresh thyme for garnish

For the Roasted Vegetables

• 300g baby carrots

• 3 medium potatoes, sliced into wedges

• 1 large zucchini, sliced

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

Place the chicken pieces on a tray lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Pat the skin dry — this is crucial for a crispy finish. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, rosemary, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. This aromatic mixture becomes your flavorful marinade.

Rub the mixture generously all over the chicken, making sure to massage some under the skin. The combination of butter and olive oil helps the chicken brown beautifully while keeping the inside juicy. Let the chicken sit for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the vegetables.

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Step 2: Season the Vegetables

In a large bowl, toss your baby carrots, potato wedges, and zucchini slices with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. The carrots will caramelize, the potatoes will crisp, and the zucchini will soften perfectly during roasting.

Spread the vegetables evenly around the chicken pieces on the tray. Keeping everything together allows the chicken juices to slightly flavor the vegetables — a secret weapon for richness.

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Step 3: Roast to Golden Perfection

Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 45–55 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces. Halfway through cooking, flip the potatoes and carrots so they brown evenly.

The chicken is done when the skin is deep golden, and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). If you want an extra crispy skin, you can broil for the last 2–3 minutes — but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Once done, remove the tray from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Resting ensures the juices redistribute and the chicken stays tender.

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Step 4: Serve the Feast

Transfer the roasted chicken pieces onto a large platter. Arrange the golden vegetables around them. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves on top for a fragrant, vibrant finish.

The result is exactly what your photo shows: glistening chicken skin, roasted vegetables full of color and flavor, and an inviting aroma that fills your home.

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Tips for Perfect Roast Chicken

• Dry the chicken skin well before seasoning — moisture is the enemy of crispiness.

• Use high heat to achieve golden roasted skin and caramelized vegetables.

• Do not overcrowd the tray; good airflow ensures proper browning.

• Let the chicken rest before serving to keep it juicy.

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What to Serve With It

This roasted chicken dish pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic butter rice

• Fresh green salad

• Homemade gravy

• Warm bread or dinner rolls

Whether enjoyed alone or accompanied by sides, it’s an unforgettable meal.

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Final Thought

Herb-roasted chicken is one of those timeless recipes that deliver maximum comfort with minimal effort. Every bite carries layers of flavor — the herbs, the caramelized vegetables, the perfectly crisp chicken skin. It’s a meal meant to be shared, enjoyed slowly, and remembered fondly. Cooking it fills your kitchen with warmth; tasting it fills your heart with satisfaction.

Bon appétit! 🍗🥕🥔🌿