If you’re searching for a dish that’s both mouthwatering and easy to prepare, look no further than my pollo al horno recipe! This roasted chicken is truly a showstopper, bringing vibrant flavors and a golden, crispy skin that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. The best part? It requires minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners. Trust me, once you try this simple yet delectable recipe, you’ll want to make it a regular in your kitchen rotation. It’s a celebration of flavors that everyone will love!
Ingredients for Pollo al Horno Recipe
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to make your pollo al horno shine:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 lemon, halved
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme)
These ingredients come together to create a juicy, flavorful chicken that you’ll be proud to serve. Make sure to use fresh herbs if you can—they add such a lovely aroma and depth to the dish! Happy cooking!
How to Prepare the Pollo al Horno Recipe
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious pollo al horno! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a beautiful roasted chicken on your table before you know it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden brown color we all crave.
- While the oven is heating, pat your whole chicken dry with paper towels. This little step makes a big difference in achieving that crispy skin—trust me!
- Next, it’s time to rub the chicken all over with the olive oil. Then sprinkle it generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Don’t be shy! This seasoning blend is what makes the chicken so flavorful.
- Now, grab those lemon halves and fresh herbs. Stuff them inside the chicken cavity, which not only infuses the meat with bright citrusy notes but also keeps it moist.
- Carefully place the chicken in a roasting pan, and pop it in the preheated oven. Roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Make sure to check with a meat thermometer for accuracy!
- Once done, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This way, the juices have time to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and juicy.
Why You’ll Love This Pollo al Horno Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick to prepare, letting you spend more time with family and friends.
- The flavors are out of this world—juicy chicken with a crispy, seasoned skin!
- It’s a healthy meal option that’s naturally gluten-free, perfect for everyone at the table.
- Minimal ingredients mean less fuss and more fun in the kitchen!
- It’s versatile—pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal that’ll impress.
Honestly, this pollo al horno recipe is a go-to in my house. I love how easy it is to whip up, and it never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. You’ve got to try it!
Tips for Success with Pollo al Horno Recipe
To ensure your pollo al horno turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips from my kitchen to yours:
- Let it rest: Allow the chicken to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is your best friend! Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is your target.
- Don’t skip the resting period: After roasting, let the chicken rest for 10 minutes. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to mix and match fresh herbs based on what you love or have on hand. Thyme, rosemary, or even sage can elevate the dish!
With these tips, you’re all set to impress with a beautifully roasted chicken. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for my pollo al horno recipe, perfect for those keeping an eye on their diet. Keep in mind that these figures are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Sugar: 0g
This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also packs a protein punch, making it a wholesome choice for any meal!
FAQ about Pollo al Horno Recipe
Got questions about my pollo al horno recipe? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get:
Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps you avoid any food safety issues.
What temperature should I roast the chicken at? I recommend roasting at 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the chicken to cook through while getting that perfect crispy skin.
How do I know when my chicken is done? Use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh for perfect doneness.
Can I add vegetables to the roasting pan? Absolutely! Carrots, potatoes, or onions can roast alongside the chicken, soaking up those delicious flavors.
How long can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover pollo al horno is just as delicious as the first day, so don’t let it go to waste! To store, let the chicken cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it—just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, gently reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps retain that juicy flavor and crispy skin. Enjoy every bite!
Print
Pollo al Horno Recipe: 5 Steps to Irresistible Flavor
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and delicious roasted chicken recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 lemon, halved
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Stuff the chicken cavity with lemon halves and fresh herbs.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan.
- Roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer for accurate cooking.
- Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before cooking.
- Serve with your choice of sides.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Spanish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the chicken
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: pollo al horno recipe
