THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET: ROSEMARY ROAST CHICKEN

THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET: ROSEMARY ROAST CHICKEN

Years ago I went to the south of France to visit a friend. His parents had bought a small cottage in the country, not far from the Mediterranean Sea, to spend their summer vacations, and my girlfriend and I were invited over for a week. At one time this was a farm but that was years ago. Now it was just a peaceful refuge in the French countryside.

The location was idyllic and the visit worthy of its own post but the only reason I mention it is that one day when preparing dinner, my friend mentioned that we needed some rosemary and took me to the front entrance of the cottage. What I thought was just nicely kept shrubs and plants lining the front walkway and the front walls were in fact dozens of different herbs and spices. As a Canadian brought up in Northern Canada, I grew up thinking that herbs and spices came from bottles and jars that you picked up at the supermarket.

A small detail I know, but what I remember the most from that visit was breaking off twigs of rosemary to use for roasting chicken later that evening. Even after 30 years, I can still remember the taste of that chicken roasted with fresh rosemary and it was fantastic. You may not have access to freshly picked herbs and spices as we had on that trip, but maybe this little story will inspire you to try this recipe below just the same. And when you do, imagine yourself in the south of France, near the Mediterranean with a glass of wine enjoying some succulent roasted chicken. Enjoy!

(If you would like to find out more about the Mediterranean then check out our post on Mediterranean Lifestyle and Travel for helpful tips and ideas.)

 The Mediterranean Diet: Rosemary Roast Chicken

Rosemary Roasted Chicken
Sprigs of rosemary

Rosemary Roast Chicken

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Servings:2
Cook Time: 42 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 chicken thighs (with skin and bones)
  • 2 minced garlic cloves
  • 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • A pinch of Salt and pepper

Instructions

Set the oven to 200°C (400°F)
Blend olive oil, garlic, chopped rosemary, salt & pepper in a bowl
Spread the mixture all over the thighs
Place the thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Roast in the oven (preheated) for 35 to 40 minutes, until the meat is cooked through and the skin is crispy
Serve with a Mediterranean side dish of your choice and a French red wine (my favorite, Cabernet Sauvignon)

My Side Dish Recommendation:

Tomato Basil Salad

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Servings:2

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup freshly chopped basil
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • ¼ crumbled feta cheese
  • A pinch of salt & pepper

Instructions:

  • Combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar in a bowl
  • Carefully mix in the feta cheese
  • Add salt & pepper to taste

For more recipes follow the following links: Greek Lemon Herb Chicken, Delicious Pesto Dish, Lemon Garlic Pork Chops, Olive Oil Grilled Turkey

Don’t Just Dream It! Do it!

How about experiencing the Mediterranean Diet first hand? Use the map below to inspire you and plan your next Mediterranean vacation right now!

Reg Auge

Reg holds an MBA, is a former Captain in the Canadian military and has worked as a consultant in industry for over 20 years. From his home in Spain, he has spent the last 10 years traveling throughout the Mediterranean, exploring the various countries and regions. He also regularly runs, windsurfs, and kite surfs, maintaining a healthy and active way of life. Captivated by this Mediterranean lifestyle, he began a Blog last year to inspire like-minded souls to learn about and discover this unique region for themselves.

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