Savory Scottish Roast Chicken Recipe for a Cozy Dinner
Attention all foodies! Are you on the lookout for a new and delicious way to roast chicken? Look no further because I have the perfect recipe for you – Scottish Roast Chicken. This classic Scottish dish is sure to become a staple in your family dinner rotation.
Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also packed with flavor and easy to make. The juicy chicken breast is seasoned with ground nutmeg, pepper, ground coriander, and salt, then stuffed with oats for an extra crunch. The outside is brushed with butter and roasted to a perfect golden brown.
But what truly sets this recipe apart is the addition of onions around the chicken, giving it an authentic Scottish flair. The onions are cooked in margarine until they’re sweet and caramelized, then arranged around the chicken to absorb all of its wonderful juices.
Don’t just take my word for it, try this Scottish Roast Chicken recipe today! Whether you’re looking for a classic Scottish meal or simply seeking a new twist on roasted chicken, this dish will be sure to impress. So grab your apron and get ready to enjoy a delicious and traditional Scottish meal in your own home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a classic Scottish meal that will impress your guests? Look no further than this Scottish Roast Chicken Recipe! This recipe offers a traditional Scottish twist on the classic roast chicken dinner. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also simple to make.
One of the main reasons to love this recipe is the unique oat stuffing. The oats create a wonderful texture and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken meat. The stuffing is made with a combination of ground nutmeg, pepper, ground coriander, salt, and oats for a delightful blend of flavors.
In addition to the delicious oat stuffing, this recipe offers a crispy skin that will have you savoring every bite. The chicken is brushed with margarine or butter and then roasted until the skin is golden brown and crispy. This attention to detail in roasting the chicken results in a perfectly cooked bird every time.
Lastly, this recipe offers versatility in serving options. You can choose to serve this chicken dinner alongside roasted cabbage or stuffed chicken dinner or even make it a part of your roast dinner spread. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes and seasonings.
Overall, this Scottish Roast Chicken Recipe is sure to be a hit at your next dinner party or family gathering. Impress your loved ones with the authentic flavors of Scotland in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredient List
To make this Scottish Roast Chicken Recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 fryer chickens, about 3 to 4 pounds each
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup oats, lightly toasted
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 onions, chopped
- Margarine
Note: you can also use chicken breast instead of whole chickens for a smaller serving size.
These ingredients will be used to create the savory oat stuffing that gives this Scottish-style roast chicken its distinctive flavor.
The Recipe How-To
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Rinse the chicken under running water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, ground coriander, and ground nutmeg.
- Stuff the cavity with your favorite stuffing or try our Traditional Scottish Oat Stuffing
- Brush the chicken all over with melted butter or margarine.
Roasting the Chicken
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a shallow roasting pan.
- Arrange half-cut onions around the chicken.
- Spread margarine or butter over the onions.
- Roast for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting occasionally with pan juices and butter/margarine until it is brown and crispy.
Checking the Doneness
To check if cooked completely, insert a meat thermometer in the thickest part of a thigh without touching bone till it reaches 165°F or pierce deep into the thigh with a fork several times. If any juice run out, it should be clear not pink.
Serving Your Delicious Roasted Chicken
- Transfer your roasted chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving.
- Serve with your favorite side dish; this recipe tastes amazing with roasted potatoes, carrots, and parsnips!
- Garnish with finely chopped parsley or serve as it is.
Enjoy your delicious Scottish roast chicken!
Substitutions and Variations
There are several ways to customize this Scottish Roast Chicken Recipe to fit your personal taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few suggestions:
– Substitute the oats with breadcrumbs or cornmeal for a gluten-free version.
– Add some chopped herbs such as thyme, rosemary or sage to the oat stuffing for an extra boost of flavor.
– For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or paprika to the seasoning mix.
– Consider using margarine instead of butter to make this dish dairy-free.
– You can also experiment with different vegetables for the stuffing. Carrots, celery and mushrooms would add some nice depth and texture.
– If you don’t have access to howtowdie Scottish chickens, you can use any fryer chicken without sacrificing too much flavor.
– For a truly Scottish twist, try adding some sliced haggis to the oat stuffing mix before placing it inside the chicken.
– For a more traditional Scottish dish, consider making balmoral chicken instead. This variation includes haggis along with oatmeal and topped with melted cheese.
Overall, this recipe is quite versatile and allows for plenty of experimentation based on your personal preferences. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try different variations until you find the perfect flavor profile that works best for you!
Serving and Pairing
Once the Scottish Roast Chicken is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy it! The crispy skin and juicy meat of this chicken recipe will surely satisfy your cravings. In terms of serving, you can carve the chicken into pieces or serve it as a whole, depending on your preference.
Pairing is also an essential part of any meal, and this recipe is no exception. For a traditional Scottish experience, I recommend serving the Scottish Roast Chicken with some classic Scottish dishes. Balmoral Chicken, for instance, is a perfect side dish to complement the flavors of the roasted chicken. This dish consists of chicken stuffed with haggis and wrapped in bacon – it may sound unusual, but it’s undoubtedly delicious. Another suggested side dish is cabbage – try roasting cabbage in the same oven as the chicken for a flavorful side.
On the other hand, if you prefer lighter options, you can serve this roast chicken with some steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans. A simple mixed greens salad tossed in balsamic vinaigrette would also go well with this recipe.
For those who want to create a full meal, we recommend serving this roasted chicken with some starches such as mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes. You can also opt for some crusty bread to soak up all the flavorsome gravy that comes with the roast chicken.
In terms of beverages, a classic Scottish ale or whiskey would pair wonderfully with this recipe. Alternatively, for non-alcoholic options, you can try apple cider or cranberry juice.
Remember that pairing is about experimenting and finding what fits your taste preferences best. So don’t be afraid to make your combinations and discover new flavors while enjoying this delightful Scottish Roast Chicken recipe!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about Scottish Roast Chicken is that it’s a dish that can be made-ahead and reheated with ease. This recipe is great for those planning ahead for special occasions, roasts, or busy weeks when you’re craving a delicious home-cooked meal.
To make-ahead, follow the recipe as directed and allow the roast chicken to cool to room temperature before carefully wrapping it in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken can be stored like this for up to three days.
When you’re ready to reheat your Scottish Roast Chicken, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the chicken from its plastic wrap and place on a baking sheet. Brush some butter or margarine over the top of the chicken skin to help keep it moist, then cover it in aluminum foil. Place the baking sheet with the covered chicken into the oven and reheat until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remember that when reheating, the stuffing may become dry, so adding some extra butter or gravy can help revive it. You can do this by spooning some of your preferred gravy into a small saucepan, reheating it gently on low heat, then spooning it over the stuffing as needed.
If you happen to have some leftovers after preparing Scottish Roast Chicken, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days in the refrigerator or for up to four months in the freezer.
In my experience, I’ve found that while microwaving roast chicken is possible, it often leads to dry and rubbery meat. Therefore, I do not recommend using a microwave for reheating your Scottish Roast Chicken.
Overall, this dish is an excellent option for those who love having delicious meals on hand without a lot of fuss. By following these tips for making it ahead and storing/reheating, you’ll still have juicy and flavorful chicken that tastes just as satisfying as the day it was first cooked.
Tips for Perfect Results
As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I have learned some tips and tricks when it comes to making the perfect Scottish Roast Chicken. Here are some key tips to ensure your chicken turns out crispy on the outside, moist on the inside, and full of flavor.
1. Truss the Chicken
Trussing the chicken ensures that it cooks evenly and stays moist throughout. Simply tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the bird. This also gives the bird an aesthetic appearance that is perfect for display.
2. Use High Heat
For a truly roasted chicken, be sure to cook it at high heat in a shallow roasting pan. A temperature of 425°F (218°C) is perfect for cooking a whole bird, and 375°F (190°C) for bone-in chicken breasts. This technique helps to create crispy skin while also locking in moisture.
3. Brush with Butter
To add extra flavor and moisture, brush melted butter or margarine onto the chicken every 20 minutes while cooking. This will help to keep the meat moist and tender while giving it a rich, golden brown color.
4. Add Oat Stuffing
For a traditional Scottish twist, try adding oat stuffing to your roast chicken recipe. The combination of oats and spices like ground coriander, nutmeg, and pepper make for a deliciously savory stuffing that perfectly complements the flavors of the roasted chicken.
5. Let It Rest
After removing your chicken from the oven, let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows time for the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite juicy and delicious.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to making a perfect Scottish Roast Chicken that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests at any dinner party or family meal!
FAQ
Now, let’s take a moment to address some frequently asked questions about the Scottish Roast Chicken Recipe. These questions have been gathered from many cooks who have tried this recipe in the past and would like some extra guidance. In the subsequent section, you will find answers to these common queries that cover anything from substitutions to reheating your Scottish Roast Chicken leftovers.
Should you sear chicken before roasting?
For an uncomplicated and deliciously juicy chicken breast, try a quick pan sear followed by baking in the oven. This two-step process allows for an effortless preparation, providing ample time to mix up a salad to complement your meal.
Why put a lemon in a roast chicken?
There’s no denying the fact that hot steam and lemon can work wonders for chicken. Aside from imparting an incredible flavor, the combination also tends to expedite the cooking process. So, begin by coating your chicken – both on the inside and outside – with a liberal amount of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Why is my roast chicken not crispy?
According to Chef Lachlan, when sautéing chicken, it is essential to cook it over medium-high heat. This ensures that the heat in the pan is just right to render out the fat behind the chicken skin while also crisping it perfectly. If the pan is too cool, the chicken will end up greasy and unpleasantly soft.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Scottish Roast Chicken recipe is an easy and delicious meal that is sure to impress your family and guests. With its unique oat stuffing and savory spices, this dish is a classic example of traditional Scottish cuisine.
By using fresh ingredients and following the instructions carefully, you can create a mouthwatering roasted chicken that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Whether you are looking for a hearty dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe has everything you need to satisfy your cravings.
Try serving it with traditional Scottish sides like haggis, oatmeal, or cabbage for a truly authentic Scottish experience. And if you want to switch things up, feel free to experiment with different flavor variations or substitutions.
So what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and discover why Scottish cuisine is cherished around the world. Your taste buds will thank you!
Scottish Roast Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 -4 lbs fryer chickens, in pieces
- 6 medium onions, cut in half
- 1/4 cup butter or 1/4 cup margarine, melted
- 1 large onion, minced
- 1/4 cup butter or 1/4 cup margarine
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
- Prepare Oat Stuffing: Melt butter in med.
- skillet; cook 1 lg minced onion on medium heat, stirring frequently, until light brown.
- Stir oats and spices; cook until oats are golden brown, stirring frequently, approx 3-4 min.
- For Chicken: Fill wishbone area of chicken with stuffing.
- Fasten neck skin to back with skewer.
- Fold wings across back; let tips touch.
- Fill main cavity lightly with stuffing.
- (This will expand while cooking, so don't stuff too much in!) Skewer/tie drumsticks to tail.
- Place chicken, breast up, in shallow roasting pan.
- Arrange halved onions around chicken.
- Brush chicken and onions with 1/4 c.
- melted butter.
- Leave uncovered; roast at 375.
- Baste several times with remaining butter during cook time, approx 1-1/2 hrs.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.