Green Goddess Roasted Chicken

Succulent, herbaceous, and irresistibly aromatic, Green Goddess Roasted Chicken takes the classic creamy dressing to a whole new level. This recipe transforms mild chicken into a showstopper, deeply infused with the zippy, tangy flavors of fresh herbs and garlic.

Marinated to perfection in a vibrant blend of basil, chives, lime, and optional anchovies, the chicken emerges golden and fragrant, with a crisp, caramelized skin. The reserved dressing doubles as a luscious dipping sauce, ensuring every bite is a flavor-packed delight.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a cozy family meal, this recipe delivers versatility and elegance. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad drizzled with extra Green Goddess sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Green Goddess Roasted Chicken: Ingredients That Bring It to Life

• Buttermilk or Yogurt: The creamy base that tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with tangy depth.
• Basil and Chives: Fresh, vibrant herbs that deliver the signature green hue and earthy flavor.
• Garlic and Scallions: Aromatic essentials that add boldness and savory complexity.
• Lime Zest and Juice: A citrusy touch that brightens and balances the marinade.
• Anchovies (Optional): A subtle, umami-packed addition for extra depth and richness.
• Whole Chicken: The star of the dish, transforming into a golden, juicy masterpiece.

Recipe Tips

1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor
   For the juiciest, most flavorful chicken, let it marinate overnight. The buttermilk tenderizes the meat, while the herbaceous Green Goddess dressing penetrates deeply, creating a bold, savory taste with every bite. Short on time? Aim for at least 6 hours.
2. Roasting Temperature Matters
   Cooking the chicken at a high temperature (500°F) ensures a beautifully crisp and golden skin. Make sure to pat the chicken dry before roasting and drizzle it lightly with olive oil to enhance the caramelization process without creating excess smoke.
3. Save the Sauce for a Finishing Touch
   Reserve a portion of the marinade before adding it to the chicken to use as a sauce. Serve it on the side or drizzle over the finished dish to intensify the herbal, tangy flavors. For food safety, avoid using the marinade that touched raw chicken.

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What to Serve with Green Goddess Roasted Chicken

1. Herbed Couscous or Quinoa
   A light, fluffy grain like couscous or quinoa pairs wonderfully with the herbal flavors of the chicken. Mix in fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime, and a drizzle of olive oil to complement the dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus. Their caramelized sweetness balances the tangy, herbaceous notes of the Green Goddess dressing.
3. Fresh Salad
   A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette or a splash of the reserved Green Goddess dressing adds a refreshing element to the meal. Toss in radishes or cucumbers for extra crunch.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of chicken?
   Absolutely! While a whole chicken is traditional, thighs, drumsticks, or even chicken breasts work well. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the pieces.
2. What if I don’t have anchovies?
   Anchovies add umami depth, but you can skip them or substitute with a dash of fish sauce or a small amount of miso paste for a similar effect.
3. Can I grill the chicken instead of roasting it?
   Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the marinade. Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain the skin’s crispness.

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Green Goddess Roasted Chicken

Green Goddess dressing—a velvety blend of aromatic herbs, pungent garlic, and optional anchovies—offers remarkable versatility. While delightful as a salad dressing or vegetable dip, its most compelling role is as a marinade for roasted chicken. The mild, tender meat imbibes the tangy and herbaceous nuances of the marinade, emerging from the oven golden, aromatic, and speckled with green. To amplify the herbal essence, reserve a portion of the dressing as a sauce to drizzle over the finished dish or accompanying sides, uniting the flavors harmoniously.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 People

Ingredients

  

• Chicken: One whole chicken 4-5 pounds, halved through the breast and backbone, dried with paper towels.
• Buttermilk or Plain Yogurt: Acts as the marinade’s creamy tangy base.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh and fragrant imparting a distinct herbal quality.
• Chives: Adds a mild onion-like flavor.
• Garlic Cloves: Essential for depth and aromatic warmth.
• Scallion: Offers a subtle yet sweet allium touch.
• Anchovy Fillets Optional: Enhances the marinade with umami richness.
• Lime Zest and Juice: Brightens the dish with its citrusy notes.
• Coarse Kosher Salt: Ensures proper seasoning.
• Black Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and complexity.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Used for drizzling aiding in crisping and browning.

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Marinade
• Combine buttermilk, basil, chives, garlic, scallion, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and black pepper in a blender. For an extra layer of umami, include the anchovies. Blend until the mixture becomes smooth and cohesive.
• Marinate the Chicken
• Place the chicken halves in a large bowl or heavy-duty resealable plastic bag. Pour in three-quarters of the prepared Green Goddess marinade, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated. Reserve the remaining marinade to use later as a sauce. Seal the bowl or bag and refrigerate for a minimum of 6 hours, ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
• Roast the Chicken
• Preheat the oven to 500°F. Remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess liquid, and arrange the halves on a rimmed baking sheet. Discard the marinade that was in contact with the chicken. Pat the tops of the chicken dry with paper towels and lightly drizzle with olive oil. Roast for approximately 30 to 45 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with the reserved marinade as a sauce for a flavorful finishing touch.

Keyword Green Goddess Roasted Chicken