Roast chicken is a classic staple, but this recipe elevates it to something special with a delightful maple pepper glaze. The combination of sweet maple syrup and spicy black pepper adds a new flavor dimension to the chicken, and the sweet potatoes roasted alongside the bird soak up the delicious juices and glaze. This is a perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a festive occasion that will leave your guests asking for the recipe.
All the ingredients called for in this recipe are usually quite common and are likely to be available at your regular supermarket. However, ensure to buy pure maple syrup, rather than maple-flavored syrup. It's a bit pricier than the flavored alternative, but the taste difference is significant. The bourbon in the glaze can be found in the liquor section of the supermarket. If you don't consume alcohol, it can be replaced with apple juice or left out entirely, though it adds a nice depth to the glaze.
Ingredients for Roast Chicken with Maple Pepper Glaze
Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are the root of a vine in the morning glory family and provide a rich source of fiber, vitamins and minerals.
Cooking oil: Cooking oil is used to lubricate the pan and prevent the sweet potatoes and chicken from sticking.
Salt: Salt is crucial for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Black pepper: Black pepper adds a spicy kick that contrasts with the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Chicken: The star of the dish, choose a whole chicken that's fresh and of good quality.
Butter: Butter adds a rich, creamy flavor to the dish. It also helps the glaze to adhere to the chicken.
Maple syrup: Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that provides a contrasting sweetness to the pepper.
Bourbon: Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that adds a depth of flavor to the glaze.
One reader, Buck Levine says:
This roast chicken with maple pepper glaze recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet and savory flavors is simply divine. The chicken turns out juicy and flavorful, and the glaze adds a delightful touch. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious and comforting meal.
Key Techniques for Making Roast Chicken With Maple Pepper Glaze
How to roast the chicken: Roasting the chicken involves rubbing the cavity with salt and pepper, tying the legs together, and coating it with oil, salt, pepper, and butter before placing it in the roasting pan.
How to make the maple pepper glaze: The glaze is made by combining maple syrup, bourbon, and ground pepper in a small bowl.
How to rest the chicken: After roasting, the chicken should be transferred to a plate and left to rest in a warm spot for about 10 minutes.
How to prepare the sweet potatoes: The sweet potatoes are tossed with oil, salt, and pepper before being placed around the chicken in the roasting pan.
How to brush the chicken with glaze: The chicken is brushed with the maple pepper glaze during the roasting process, adding flavor and a beautiful glaze to the chicken.
How to drizzle the potatoes with glaze: The sweet potatoes are drizzled with the maple pepper glaze during the roasting process, adding a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
How To Make Roast Chicken with Maple Pepper Glaze
Juicy and tender, take roast chicken and sweet potatoes to a whole new level by glazing them with a mellow tasting maple pepper sauce.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2lbssweet potatoes,peeled and cut into 1½-inch pieces
- 2tbspcooking oil
- 1tspsalt
- 1¼tspfresh ground black pepper
- 1chicken,(3 to 3½ lbs)
- 1tbspbutter
- 6tbsppure maple syrup
- 1½tbspbourbon
Instructions
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Heat the oven to 425 degrees F.
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In a large roasting pan, toss the sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of the oil, ½ teaspoon of the salt, and ¼ teaspoon of the pepper. Push them to the edges of the pan, leaving a space in the center for the chicken.
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Rub the cavity of the chicken with ¼ teaspoon of the salt and ⅛ teaspoon of the pepper. Twist the wings behind the back and tie the legs together. Put the chicken, breast-side up, in the center of the roasting pan.
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Coat the chicken with the remaining oil, sprinkle with the remaining salt and ⅛ teaspoon of the pepper, and dot with the butter. Roast the chicken for 30 minutes.
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Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, bourbon, and the remaining pepper. Remove the roasting pan from the oven and stir the potatoes.
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Brush the chicken with about 2 tablespoons of the glaze and drizzle the potatoes with about ½ tablespoon of the glaze.
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Return the pan to the oven and cook, stirring the potatoes and brushing the chicken with the remaining glaze 2 more times, for about 30 minutes longer until the chicken and potatoes are just done.
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Transfer the bird and potatoes to a plate and leave to rest in a warm spot for about 10 minutes.
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Meanwhile, pour off the fat from the roasting pan. Add any accumulated juices from the chicken to the liquid in the pan.
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Serve the chicken with pan juices and sweet potatoes. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1020.68kcal
- Fat: 55.22g
- Saturated Fat: 15.32g
- Trans Fat: 0.44g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 23.91g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.81g
- Carbohydrates: 66.33g
- Fiber: 7.03g
- Sugar: 27.63g
- Protein: 59.50g
- Cholesterol: 232.63mg
- Sodium: 920.28mg
- Calcium: 136.87mg
- Potassium: 1407.97mg
- Iron: 4.21mg
- Vitamin A: 1755.51µg
- Vitamin C: 10.24mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Roasting Chicken With Maple Pepper Glaze
When roasting chicken, it's important to remember that the skin should be as dry as possible before it goes into the oven. This will ensure a crispy, golden brown finish. You can achieve this by patting the chicken dry with paper towels before applying the oil and seasonings. Additionally, brushing the maple pepper glaze on the chicken multiple times during the roasting process will not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to a beautifully caramelized skin. Remember to let the chicken rest after roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the bird, resulting in a moist and flavorful roast.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Roast Chicken Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use pre-cut ingredients: Consider using pre-cut sweet potatoes to save time on prep work.
Multi-task: While the chicken is roasting, use that time to prepare side dishes or set the table to maximize efficiency.
Invest in quality tools: Quality knives and kitchen tools can make prep work quicker and more efficient.
Organize your workspace: Keep all ingredients and tools within reach to avoid wasting time searching for items during cooking.
Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid mistakes that could lead to time-consuming fixes.
Substitute Ingredients For Roast Chicken with Maple Pepper Glaze Recipe
sweet potatoes - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor to sweet potatoes and can be roasted in the same way, making it a great substitute in this recipe.
cooking oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil adds a rich flavor and works well for roasting, just like cooking oil.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar saltiness to regular salt and can be used in the same quantity in this recipe.
fresh ground black pepper - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor and a hint of spice, which can complement the dish in a similar way to black pepper.
chicken - Substitute with turkey: Turkey can be roasted with the same glaze and will provide a similar flavor and texture to the dish.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a rich, nutty flavor similar to butter and can be used as a substitute in this recipe.
pure maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a similar sweetness and caramelization to the dish as maple syrup.
bourbon - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, similar to the bourbon, when used in small quantities.
How to Beautifully Present Roast Chicken With Maple Pepper Glaze
Elevate the plating: As a culinary professional, it's essential to present the roast chicken with maple pepper glaze in an elevated manner. Consider using edible flowers or microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. The goal is to create a visually appealing plate that showcases the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Arrange the sweet potatoes in a visually appealing manner, and ensure that the chicken is positioned in a way that highlights its golden brown skin. Precision in plating demonstrates attention to detail and elevates the overall presentation of the dish.
Emphasize the glaze: Highlight the maple pepper glaze by using a brush to create elegant strokes on the plate. This not only adds a touch of sophistication to the presentation but also allows the glaze to shine as a focal point of the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to create a balanced and visually striking presentation. Allow the natural colors of the dish to stand out against the white space, drawing attention to the textures and flavors of the roast chicken and sweet potatoes.
Incorporate height: Consider incorporating elements that add height to the plate, such as a small stack of sweet potatoes or a garnish that extends upward. This technique adds dimension to the presentation and creates an engaging visual experience for the diners.
Attention to cleanliness: Prioritize cleanliness and precision when plating the dish. Wipe any smudges or spills on the plate, ensuring that the presentation is immaculate and reflects the high standards of a Michelin-starred establishment.
Balance flavors and colors: Aim to create a visually balanced plate by considering the colors and flavors of each component. The sweet potatoes and glazed chicken should complement each other harmoniously, both in taste and appearance.
Highlight the chicken's golden hue: Showcase the beautiful golden hue of the roast chicken by ensuring that it takes center stage on the plate. This can be achieved by framing the chicken with the sweet potatoes or using subtle garnishes to draw attention to the main protein.
Use elegant serving ware: Select elegant and refined serving ware that complements the sophistication of the dish. The choice of plate and utensils can enhance the overall presentation and contribute to the upscale dining experience.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Roast Chicken Recipe
- Oven: Used for baking, roasting, and cooking food.
- Roasting pan: A deep, heavy-duty pan used for roasting meats and vegetables.
- Small bowl: Used for mixing and combining ingredients.
- Brush: Used for applying glazes and sauces onto food.
- Tongs: Used for flipping and handling food items while cooking.
- Knife: Used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Measuring spoons: Used for accurately measuring small amounts of ingredients.
- Whisk: Used for mixing and incorporating ingredients together.
- Plates: Used for serving the cooked food.
- Spatula: Used for flipping and turning food items while cooking.
Storing and Freezing Tips for Roast Chicken With Maple Pepper Glaze
- Let the roast chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the roast chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and contents, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat the frozen roast chicken, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Store any leftover maple pepper glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can use it as a sauce for other roasted meats or vegetables.
- If you have leftover sweet potatoes, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or oven until heated through.
- To freeze the sweet potatoes, let them cool completely and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the package with the date and contents, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the sweet potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How To Reheat Leftover Roast Chicken With Maple Pepper Glaze
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover roast chicken on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help to prevent the chicken from drying out while it reheats. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help to keep the chicken moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes per piece, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover roast chicken with maple pepper glaze. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken pieces in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and the skin is crispy.
For a stovetop method, place the leftover chicken in a skillet with a lid. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan to help keep the chicken moist. Cover the skillet and heat over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
If you want to reheat the sweet potatoes along with the chicken, you can place them in the same baking dish or on the same baking sheet. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the sweet potatoes in the microwave or air fryer, following the same instructions as for the chicken.
Interesting Fact About Roast Chicken With Maple Pepper Glaze
Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that contains antioxidants and nutrients like zinc and manganese. It's a healthier alternative to refined sugar and adds a unique flavor to dishes.
Is Making Roast Chicken With Maple Pepper Glaze Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this roast chicken with maple pepper glaze recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients in your area. Chicken and sweet potatoes are generally affordable and versatile ingredients, making this recipe budget-friendly for a household. The use of maple syrup and bourbon may slightly increase the overall cost, but these ingredients can be used in various other recipes. Considering the balanced flavors and the potential for leftovers, this recipe earns a solid 9/10 rating. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it a reasonable and satisfying option.
Is This Roast Chicken Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This roast chicken with maple pepper glaze recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-dense sweet potatoes, which are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The chicken itself is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids for muscle growth and repair. However, the recipe also contains some less healthy ingredients, such as butter and bourbon, which add saturated fat and alcohol to the dish. Additionally, the maple syrup glaze contributes to the overall sugar content.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter used or replace it with a healthier alternative, such as olive oil or avocado oil
- Opt for a lower-sodium chicken broth instead of the pan juices to reduce the overall sodium content
- Experiment with using a sugar-free maple syrup alternative or reducing the amount of maple syrup used in the glaze
- Increase the proportion of sweet potatoes to chicken to boost the fiber and nutrient content of the meal
- Serve the dish with a side of steamed or roasted non-starchy vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, to add more vitamins, minerals, and fiber
Editor's Opinion on This Maple Pepper Glazed Roast Chicken
The roast chicken with maple pepper glaze recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. The use of maple syrup and bourbon in the glaze adds a rich and complex taste to the dish, while the sweet potatoes provide a comforting and hearty accompaniment. The cooking method ensures that the chicken is moist and flavorful, and the glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a deliciously sticky exterior. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a wonderful choice for a special dinner or gathering.
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Why trust this Roast Chicken with Maple Pepper Glaze Recipe:
This roast chicken recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, featuring succulent chicken glazed with a delightful mix of maple syrup and bourbon. The sweet potatoes, seasoned with salt and pepper, add a perfect balance to the dish. The methodical instructions ensure a perfectly roasted chicken and tender sweet potatoes. Trust the combination of butter, maple syrup, and bourbon to create a rich and flavorful glaze that will elevate your roast chicken to new heights. With this recipe, you can confidently create a memorable and delicious meal for your loved ones.
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