Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Stuffing:
- In a pan, sauté the diced shallots or onions until softened.
- Add the minced beef and cook until browned.
- Season with salt, pepper, and turmeric.
- Stir in the chopped walnuts, thyme leaves, and barberries.
- Drizzle with pomegranate molasses for a sweet-and-sour touch.
- Set the stuffing aside.
Herb Mixture for the Chicken:
- Finely chop parsley, thyme, and basil, then combine in a bowl.
- Add olive oil, lemon juice, crushed garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
- Mix well to create a fragrant herb paste.
Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 200°C.
- If necessary, trim any excess parts from the chicken.
- Make a few shallow cuts on the thighs to help them cook evenly.
- Rub softened butter all over the chicken skin for extra flavour and crispiness.
- Gently loosen the skin of the chicken breast and thighs with your fingers.
- Spread the herb mixture evenly under the skin, followed by a bit of butter.
- Rub the remaining herb mixture all over the outside of the chicken.
Stuff the Chicken:
- Place a few cloves of garlic inside the cavity, followed by the prepared stuffing.
- Tie the legs together with butcher’s twine.
Roasting the Chicken:
- Place the chicken on a rack inside a roasting tray. If you don’t have a rack, lay some vegetables (onions, carrots, celery) under the chicken.
- Cover the chicken with foil, sealing it well to trap steam.
- Roast in the oven for 45 minutes per kilo, plus an additional 20 minutes (approx. 1 hour 35 minutes for a 1.75 kg chicken).
- Remove the foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to crisp up the skin.
Video
Notes
Check for Doneness:
- The chicken is ready when the juices run clear. If the juices are still pink, roast for another 10-15 minutes.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 10 minutes before carving.
- Serve with your choice of roast vegetables and enjoy the succulent meat and flavourful stuffing.
