Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Empire Roast Chicken is a flavorful twist on the classic roast chicken, inspired by Indian spices. This recipe features a whole chicken marinated in a blend of fragrant spices and yogurt, creating a beautifully golden and crispy skin with tender, juicy meat. The rich spices add depth and subtle heat, making this dish a perfect centerpiece for any special occasion or a delicious family meal. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or rice for a satisfying and memorable dinner.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

• Bold and Fragrant: Indian-inspired spices elevate the flavor of a classic roast chicken.
• Tender and Juicy: The yogurt marinade helps to tenderize the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.
• Perfect for Entertaining: An impressive and flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday spices and ingredients to create a restaurant-quality roast.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice level to suit your taste or add extra herbs for more flavor.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Chicken Pie with Crème Fraîche
• Jamie Oliver Chicken Tikka Masala
• Jamie Oliver Sweet Potato Stew

What is Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken?

Jamie Oliver’s Empire Roast Chicken is a fusion dish that combines the simplicity of a traditional roast chicken with the bold, aromatic flavors of Indian spices. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of yogurt, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. This gives the chicken a beautiful golden color and deep, complex flavor, while the yogurt helps keep the meat moist and tender.

Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 1.5-2 kg or 3-4 lbs)
• 200g (3/4 cup) plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, halved
• Fresh coriander (cilantro) leaves, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken

Step 1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a roasting pan with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix the plain yogurt, olive oil, ground cumin, ground coriander, turmeric, garam masala, smoked paprika, grated ginger, minced garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and form a smooth, fragrant marinade.

Step 3. Marinate the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season the cavity with salt and pepper. Rub the yogurt spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to coat it thoroughly. Rub some of the marinade under the skin of the chicken breasts for extra flavor and moisture. Place the lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken.

Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for even better results, marinate it in the fridge for several hours or overnight.

Step 4. Roast the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on a roasting rack in the prepared roasting pan. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the chicken.

If the chicken skin begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 5. Rest the Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.

Step 6. Serve

Garnish the roast chicken with fresh coriander leaves and serve with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, basmati rice, or naan bread. Slice and enjoy!

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted potatoes, carrots, and cauliflower for a hearty side.
• Basmati Rice: A side of fluffy basmati rice is the perfect companion to the flavorful roast chicken.
• Naan Bread: Serve with warm naan bread for a complete Indian-inspired meal.
• Cucumber Raita: A cool cucumber and yogurt raita adds a refreshing contrast to the spices in the chicken.
• Chutney: Serve with mango or tamarind chutney for a sweet and tangy touch.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: For the best results, marinate the chicken for at least a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
• Season Under the Skin: Rubbing the marinade under the skin ensures the chicken breasts stay moist and flavorful.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the chicken.
• Let the Chicken Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This helps retain the juices, making the meat tender and succulent.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of garam masala or paprika.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken

• Spicy Empire Chicken: Add chili powder or fresh green chilies to the marinade for extra heat.
• Herb-Crusted Empire Chicken: Add fresh herbs like mint or cilantro to the marinade for a fragrant twist.
• Stuffed Chicken: Stuff the chicken with a mixture of rice, herbs, and nuts for a heartier version of the dish.
• Coconut Yogurt Chicken: Use coconut yogurt instead of plain yogurt for a subtle coconut flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Use the same marinade on large vegetables like cauliflower or sweet potatoes and roast them instead of chicken.

How to Store Leftovers of Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• Labeling: Always label your containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken Leftovers

• Oven: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Shred the chicken and heat it in a pan with a little oil and leftover marinade for added flavor.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 40g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg

FAQs

Can I freeze Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How long does Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken last in the fridge?

The chicken will last up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I make Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply roast it as instructed.

What can I serve with Jamie Oliver Empire Roast Chicken?

Serve this flavorful roast chicken with basmati rice, naan bread, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber raita for a complete meal.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Empire Roast Chicken is a delightful fusion of traditional roast chicken with the bold, aromatic flavors of Indian spices. The yogurt-based marinade helps keep the chicken tender and moist, while the spices give it a vibrant flavor and beautiful golden color. This dish is perfect for a Sunday roast or any special occasion where you want to serve something both comforting and unique. Pair it with basmati rice, naan, and roasted vegetables for a complete meal!

More Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Chicken And Chorizo Risotto
• Jamie Oliver Chicken And Chorizo Stew
• Jamie Oliver Greek Chicken Pasta
• Jamie Oliver’s Chicken and Sweetcorn Soup

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