Molasses Five Spice Roast Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Delight your family and friends with this tantalizing Molasses Five Spice Roast Chicken that brings together the unique flavors of Chinese five-spice powder, sweet potatoes, and a delectable glaze that truly elevates this dish. Perfectly roasted to achieve a crispy skin and juicy interior, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also promises a spectacular dining experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Description
This roast chicken is infused with the aromatic essence of Chinese five-spice powder, complemented by the rich sweetness of dark molasses and honey. The addition of sweet potatoes rounds out the dish, making it a wholesome meal that is both satisfying and flavorful. I discovered this recipe in Good Housekeeping, and it has quickly become a favorite in my household. It’s ideal for any occasion, whether a family dinner or a special celebration.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole chicken | 1 (about 4-5 lbs) |
| Chinese five-spice powder | 1 ½ tablespoons |
| Sweet potatoes | 3 (medium-sized) |
| Dark molasses | 2 tablespoons |
| Ketchup | 2 tablespoons |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Fresh chives (for garnish) | To taste |
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (Based on 4 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 633.3 |
| Total Fat | 34.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 172.5 mg |
| Sodium | 844.1 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 33.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 15.7 g |
| Protein | 44.9 g |
Cooking Instructions
Preparation
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature will ensure that the chicken skin gets beautifully crispy.
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Prepare the Chicken: Remove any giblets and the neck from the cavity of the chicken. Rinse the chicken under cold water and drain it thoroughly, then pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a crisp finish.
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Season the Cavity: Sprinkle ½ teaspoon of the Chinese five-spice powder inside the cavity of the chicken. This will infuse the meat with flavor from the inside out.
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Prepare the Chicken for Roasting: With the chicken breast side up, tuck the wing tips under the back of the bird to help it cook evenly. Using kitchen string, tie the legs together, which will help keep the moisture in during cooking.
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash and dry the sweet potatoes, then pierce each with a fork. Cut them into quarters, making sure they are small enough to cook through but not so small that they disintegrate during roasting.
Assemble the Dish
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Line the Roasting Pan: Line a medium roasting pan with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a small rack in the center of the pan.
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Arrange the Chicken and Potatoes: Position the chicken, breast side up, on the rack in the prepared pan. Arrange the sweet potatoes around the chicken. If you prefer, you can peel and cut the potatoes instead of leaving them whole for roasting.
Make the Glaze
- Combine the Glaze Ingredients: In a cup, mix together the dark molasses, ketchup, honey, soy sauce, salt, and the remaining Chinese five-spice powder until well combined.
Roasting the Chicken
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Glaze the Chicken: Brush half of the molasses glaze all over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
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Cover and Roast: Cover the pan loosely with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast the chicken for 30 minutes.
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Finish Roasting: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and brush the remaining glaze over the chicken. Continue roasting for another 30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads between 175°F to 180°F (79°C to 82°C), and the juices run clear when pierced with a knife.
Serving
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Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This resting time is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
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Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: If you left the sweet potatoes whole, slice them into ¾-inch thick pieces and arrange them on a serving platter alongside the carved chicken.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped chives for a burst of color and added flavor. Skim and discard any fat from the drippings in the roasting pan, then serve the pan drippings alongside the chicken and sweet potatoes.
Enjoy!
This Molasses Five Spice Roast Chicken is sure to impress with its rich flavors and inviting aromas, creating a memorable meal for all. The combination of the tender roast chicken and sweet, caramelized potatoes makes for a delightful dining experience that is both comforting and satisfying.
Feel free to adjust any ingredient amounts or cooking times according to your preferences and enjoy this incredible dish with loved ones!
