This recipe taught by my friends Gloria and Adam, this roasted chicken recipe is a testament to simplicity and flavour. With minimal ingredients and fuss, it’s perfect for a quick and delicious meal. The preparation is straightforward: generously season the chicken with salt and rosemary, then place it on a bed of baking salt. This technique ensures that the chicken cooks evenly, with the salt absorbing any excess moisture, resulting in crispy skin and succulent meat. After roasting for 50 minutes, you’ll have a beautifully golden, aromatic chicken that’s both impressive and effortless. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Tips for Changing the Recipe by Instinct

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tweak it based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:

1. Herb Variations:
   • Thyme: Substitute or add to the rosemary for an earthy, subtle flavour.
   • Oregano: Adds a Mediterranean touch to the chicken.
   • Sage: Pairs beautifully with chicken, giving it a slightly peppery, savoury taste.
2. Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest over the chicken before roasting to add a bright, fresh flavour.
3. Garlic: Add crushed garlic cloves under the skin or around the chicken for a deeper, richer flavour.
4. Spices: Sprinkle a bit of paprika, black pepper, or even a touch of cumin for a hint of warmth and complexity.
5. Marinade: Marinate the chicken in a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favourite herbs and spices for a few hours before roasting to infuse it with even more flavour.
6. Vegetables: Place vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions around the chicken on the baking salt. They will roast beautifully and soak up the chicken’s juices.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to suit your taste. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it a perfect canvas for your culinary instincts.