If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, Herb & Garlic Butter Chicken Marylands is the answer. Featuring tender chicken leg quarters rubbed with a rich herb butter mixture, this recipe is all about simplicity and deliciousness. The butter melts into the chicken as it roasts, creating golden, crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat.
Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is a showstopper that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Let’s dive into how to make it!
Ingredients for Herb & Garlic Butter Chicken Marylands
- 4 chicken Marylands (chicken leg quarters)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions for Herb & Garlic Butter Chicken Marylands
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). Prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with oil.
2. Prepare the Herb Butter
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined into a fragrant herb butter.
3. Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken Marylands dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up during roasting. Gently loosen the skin of each piece by sliding your fingers under it.
Take a generous amount of the herb butter and spread it under the skin of each piece, ensuring it coats the meat thoroughly. Use any remaining butter to rub over the skin for extra flavor and color.
4. Add Lemon and Olive Oil
Drizzle the olive oil and squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken pieces. Use your hands to massage the oil and lemon into the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
5. Roast the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces on the prepared baking tray, skin side up. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.
6. Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. Garnish with fresh herbs or a wedge of lemon for an added touch.
Tips for Success
- Loosening the Skin: Be gentle when loosening the chicken skin to avoid tearing it. This step helps the herb butter penetrate the meat for maximum flavor.
- Crispy Skin: Make sure the chicken is dry before adding the herb butter and olive oil. This ensures the skin roasts to a golden, crispy perfection.
- Marinate for More Flavor: For deeper flavor, prepare the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, rubbing it with the herb butter and storing it in the fridge until ready to roast.
- Fresh Herbs: While fresh rosemary and thyme add the best flavor, you can substitute with dried herbs if necessary. Use about half the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Herb & Garlic Butter Chicken Marylands with these delicious sides for a complete meal:
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots, zucchini, and potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them alongside the chicken.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make the perfect companion to soak up the buttery juices.
- Garlic Bread: A slice of crusty garlic bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of flavor.
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of Marylands?
Yes! You can use any cut of chicken, though cooking times may vary. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative or use olive oil instead. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to crisp up the skin.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Herb & Garlic Butter Chicken Marylands is a simple yet elegant dish that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of buttery, herby chicken with a hint of garlic and lemon creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive. Whether served for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.
So, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and treat yourself to a perfectly roasted chicken dinner tonight!