A Taste of Sonoma: Infused Citrus and Herb Roasted Chicken
In the heart of Sonoma County, where the rolling hills meet the Pacific breeze, lies a secret to culinary magic: artisan olive oil. Known for its rich, fruity profile and unparalleled quality, Sonoma County Artisan Olive Oil is a staple in kitchens where flavor, tradition, and innovation converge. Today, we’re excited to share a recipe that not only highlights the distinctive taste of this liquid gold but also encapsulates the essence of Sonoma’s vibrant culinary landscape: the Olive Oil Infused Citrus and Herb Roasted Chicken.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 to 5 pounds)
- 1/4 cup Sonoma County Artisan Olive Oil, plus more for drizzling
- 2 lemons, one juiced and one sliced
- 2 oranges, one juiced and one sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 red onion, sliced into rounds
- A handful of fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Prepare a roasting pan by lining it with parchment paper or lightly oiling it.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season the cavity and outside of the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with half of the lemon slices, half of the orange slices, and half of the minced garlic.
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together Sonoma County Artisan Olive Oil, lemon juice, orange juice, the remaining minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Marinate the Chicken: Brush the olive oil and citrus herb marinade all over the outside of the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Arrange for Roasting: Place the sliced red onions at the bottom of the roasting pan. Place the marinated chicken on top of the onions. Arrange the remaining lemon and orange slices around the chicken.
- Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is golden and crispy. Baste the chicken occasionally with the pan juices and olive oil marinade.
- Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.
- Serve: Carve the chicken and arrange the pieces on a serving platter. Drizzle with a little more Sonoma County Artisan Olive Oil and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with the roasted citrus slices and onions on the side.
This Sonoma County Olive Oil Infused Citrus and Herb Roasted Chicken recipe celebrates the flavors of Sonoma County, blending the rich, fruity notes of the olive oil with the bright acidity of citrus and the aromatic qualities of fresh herbs. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that is perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a special gathering, allowing the artisan olive oil to shine in every bite. Enjoy the depth of flavor and the joy of sharing this delicious meal with loved ones.
The Essence of Sonoma in Every Drop
Sonoma County’s artisan olive oil is more than just a cooking ingredient; it’s a celebration of the region’s agricultural bounty and commitment to craftsmanship. Each bottle tells a story of meticulous cultivation, careful pressing, and a passion for creating an olive oil that enriches every dish it graces. This Olive Oil Infused Citrus and Herb Roasted Chicken recipe is designed to bring these stories to your table, offering a taste of Sonoma’s rich culinary heritage with every bite.
Crafting the Perfect Roast
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it achieves through the harmonious blend of fresh citrus, aromatic herbs, and the star ingredient—Sonoma County Artisan Olive Oil. The olive oil serves as the perfect medium to infuse the chicken with moisture and richness, while the citrus adds a bright, tangy contrast that elevates the dish to new heights. The result is a succulent, flavorful roast that’s as delightful to the palate as it is to the senses.
A Celebration of Local Flavors
This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an ode to Sonoma County’s bountiful produce and artisanal excellence. By incorporating fresh lemons, oranges, rosemary, and thyme, we pay homage to the local farmers and producers who nurture the land and bring its flavors to our kitchens. Serving this Olive Oil Infused Citrus and Herb Roasted Chicken is an act of culinary celebration, inviting friends and family to partake in the rich tapestry of Sonoma’s food culture.
Gather Around the Table
There’s something inherently communal and comforting about sharing a roasted chicken. It brings people together, sparking conversations and creating memories over shared plates. This recipe, with its layers of flavor and warmth, is an invitation to gather around the table, slow down, and savor the moment. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the simple pleasures of good food, good company, and the timeless traditions that make Sonoma County so special.
From The Author
As we indulge in this Olive Oil Infused Citrus and Herb Roasted Chicken, let us be reminded of the beauty of simplicity, the importance of quality ingredients, and the joy of cooking with care and passion. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a journey to Sonoma County, a taste of its land, and a tribute to its artisanal spirit. So, pour a little olive oil, squeeze some fresh citrus, and let’s toast to the flavors that bring us together, to the meals that tell a story, and to the traditions that continue to inspire us in the kitchen.