As the weekend approaches, I often find myself daydreaming about the ultimate Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy—a feast that transforms a simple gathering into a cherished memory. Just the thought of it fills my kitchen with warmth, as the aroma of golden chicken mingles with the savory notes of garlic and fresh sage.
One memorable Sunday, while caught in a whirlwind of meal prep stress, I discovered a foolproof method for creating a succulent roast chicken that would impress anyone at the table. With its crispy bacon and earthy mushrooms, this dish is earthy yet elegant, making it perfect for both casual family dinners and celebratory occasions.
Imagine inviting your friends over and unveiling this glorious centerpiece, drizzled in rich gravy and surrounded by hearty sides. It’s not just about filling our bellies; it’s about creating moments, sharing stories, and redefining weekends. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and make the magic happen in your kitchen!
Why is Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy special?
Mouthwatering Aroma: The irresistible scent of roast chicken mingling with garlic and herbs fills your kitchen, creating an ambiance of comfort.
Flavor Explosion: With a savory blend of ingredients like crispy bacon and earthy mushrooms, each bite is a delightful experience.
Showstopper Dish: Impress your family and friends with this stunning centerpiece that’s perfect for any occasion.
Effortless Elegance: This dish is surprisingly easy to make, giving you time to enjoy with your loved ones instead of stressing in the kitchen.
Timeless Tradition: Perfect for revitalizing those cherished Sunday gatherings, bringing everyone together over a delicious, home-cooked meal.
Get ready to elevate your dining experience with this unforgettable roast chicken recipe!
Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy Ingredients
Explore these essential components for a memorable Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy that your family will adore.
For the Chicken
- 2 kg organic free range whole chicken – Choosing an organic chicken ensures a flavorful and juicy roast.
- ½ tsp salt – Enhances the seasonings and brings out the chicken’s natural flavors.
- ½ tsp pepper – A simple seasoning to add a touch of heat to your dish.
For the Stuffing
- 1 bulb of garlic, sliced in half – Infuses the chicken with aromatic richness as it roasts.
- 6-8 sage leaves – A fragrant herb that complements the chicken perfectly, adding depth to the dish.
- 1 leek, washed, white part cut into rounds – Gives a subtle sweetness and enhances the stuffing mix.
For the Sauce
- 6 slices of streaky bacon, roughly chopped – Adds a lovely smokiness and richness to your gravy.
- ½ cup of dried mushrooms – Provides earthy flavors that elevate the sauce to new heights.
- 25 g butter – Ensures a silky texture for the wonderful gravy.
- 1.5 tbsp plain flour – Acts as a thickening agent for a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the chicken.
- 600 ml chicken stock – Forms the base of your gravy, blending all flavors together.
- ½ lemon – A splash of bright acidity balances the richness of the dish.
Get ready to create a stunning centerpiece that will make your Sundays special!
How to Make Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy
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Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). This initial step sets the stage for a perfectly roasted chicken, delivering that crispy skin and juicy meat we all love.
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Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. This not only enhances the flavors but also helps achieve a beautiful crust as it roasts.
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Stuff the chicken with half of the sliced garlic, a few sage leaves, and the leek rounds. This aromatic stuffing infuses your roast as it cooks, creating delightful flavors in every bite.
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Sauté the chopped bacon in a skillet with olive oil and butter over medium heat until it becomes crispy. This savory base adds depth and richness to your sauce, making it irresistible.
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Add the remaining garlic and dried mushrooms to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and softened. This will create an aromatic, flavor-packed mixture that enhances your gravy.
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Stir in the flour and cook for another minute. This will help thicken your sauce nicely before you add the liquids.
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Gradually mix in the chicken stock and lemon juice, stirring continuously. Keep cooking until your sauce becomes creamy and lovely, ready to be draped over that golden chicken.
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Pour the sauce over the chicken placed in a roasting pan. This will keep the chicken moist as it roasts while creating a wonderful depth of flavor in your dish.
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Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours. Baste occasionally to ensure the meat remains juicy and the skin turns beautifully crispy and golden.
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Rest the chicken for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to settle, ensuring every slice is succulent and flavorful. Garnish with extra sage leaves if desired.
Optional: Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy?
The perfect sides can transform a wonderful roast chicken into an extraordinary meal that lingers in your heart and tastebuds.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture hugs the rich gravy, offering a comforting base to soak up those delicious flavors.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, roasted carrots bring a delightful contrast to the savory chicken, adding a pop of color to your plate.
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Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender with a hint of garlic, these beans provide a fresh element that perfectly balances the richness of the chicken.
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Herbed Rice Pilaf: Light and fluffy with herbs, this pilaf complements the meal without overshadowing the roast chicken’s glory.
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Cauliflower Cheese Bake: Creamy and cheesy, it adds a wonderful richness and plays beautifully with the earthy tones of the mushrooms in your gravy.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection with a bit of crispness, these are an irresistible addition that contrasts nicely with the tender chicken.
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Homemade Bread Rolls: Soft and warm, they are perfect for mopping up gravy and adding a rustic charm to your dinner table.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of crisp Chardonnay enhances the meal beautifully with its fruity notes and acidity, perfectly cutting through the chicken’s richness.
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Tarte Tatin: Finish off on a sweet note with this caramelized upside-down apple tart, its sweet warmth echoing the comfort of your family gathering.
How to Store and Freeze Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy
Fridge: Store leftover roast chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: If you want to keep your Sunday Roast Chicken longer, freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in freezer bags.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20-25 minutes. Serve with freshly made gravy for an elevated taste.
Sauce Storage: If you have extra chicken gravy, store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months for later enjoyment.
Make Ahead Options
These Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy recipes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and stuff the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, simply covering it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh in the refrigerator. The bacon and mushroom sauce can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, just remember to reheat it gently before pouring it over the chicken. When you’re ready to roast, preheat your oven and place the chicken in while the sauce warms for a few minutes on the stovetop. This way, you’ll enjoy a delectable, restaurant-quality dinner with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights a breeze!
Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy Variations
Feel free to spice up your Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy and make it your own with these delightful twists!
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Herb-Infused: Add a sprig of rosemary or thyme along with the sage for an aromatic boost that sings of home.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for a stuffed portobello mushroom cap, creating a hearty centerpiece that even meat-lovers will enjoy.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a diced jalapeño to the bacon mixture for a surprising heat that elevates the entire dish.
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Crispy Skin: For extra crunch, rub the chicken skin with a blend of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese before roasting. It adds a delicious texture!
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Nutty Flavor: Stir in some finely chopped walnuts or almonds into the stuffing for a delightful crunch and nuttiness that complements the flavors beautifully.
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Citrusy Twist: Substitute the lemon with orange juice for a sweeter, zestier element that pairs wonderfully with the rich gravy.
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Smoky Profile: Use smoked paprika in the seasoning mix for a deeper, barbecue-inspired flavor that will have your guests coming back for more.
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Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Replace half the chicken stock with heavy cream, creating a decadent, velvety sauce that transforms everyday gravy into a gourmet delight.
Let your creativity soar and enjoy the magic of experimenting with flavors!
Tips for the Best Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner
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Optimal Temperature: Ensure your chicken is at room temperature before roasting for even cooking. This helps in achieving a perfect Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy.
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Basting Matters: Remember to baste the chicken every 30 minutes during roasting. This keeps the meat juicy and enhances the flavor with the yummy gravy.
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Resting Time: Don’t rush to carve the chicken right away! Let it rest for 10-15 minutes post-roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute for a tastier meal.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh sage and high-quality bacon for a more vibrant flavor profile in your dish. Avoid stale ingredients for the best results!
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Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is safely cooked through. Aim for 75°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the meat for perfect doneness.
Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Chicken Gravy Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for roasting?
Absolutely! For the best Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner, look for an organic free-range whole chicken, ideally around 2 kg. These chickens are known for their enhanced flavor and tenderness. Check for a healthy appearance—no dark spots or discolorations—and ensure the skin is smooth and well-hydrated for optimal roasting results.
How should I store leftover roast chicken?
Store any leftover roast chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Allow the chicken to cool completely to room temperature before sealing it to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess. Keeping it covered ensures it retains its delightful flavor and texture.
Can I freeze leftover roast chicken and gravy?
Very! To freeze your Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner, wrap the leftovers in plastic wrap, then place them in freezer bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. You can freeze the chicken for up to 3 months. If you have extra gravy, store it in separate airtight containers. It freezes well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw everything in the refrigerator overnight and reheat accordingly.
What should I do if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you notice your chicken isn’t cooking evenly, it could be due to various factors. Check that your oven is properly preheated and the temperature is accurate, as an oven thermometer can help. If one side is browning faster, rotate the chicken halfway through cooking. Basting every 30 minutes helps ensure even cooking and moisture distribution as well!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you’re serving guests with dietary restrictions, make sure to ask ahead of time. For those who are gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free alternative when making the gravy. Beware of allergies too; some guests may be sensitive to garlic or mushrooms. Offering sides that are allergen-free can create a more inclusive meal.
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of dried ones?
Certainly! If you prefer fresh mushrooms, feel free to substitute them at a 1:1 ratio. Fresh mushrooms will add a lighter texture and vibrant flavor to your gravy. Sauté them for about 5 minutes with the bacon and garlic to ensure they blend beautifully with the dish. Enjoy your cooking!
Succulent Sunday Roast Chicken Dinner with Creamy Gravy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
- Stuff the chicken with half of the sliced garlic, a few sage leaves, and the leek rounds.
- Sauté the chopped bacon in a skillet with olive oil and butter over medium heat until crispy.
- Add the remaining garlic and dried mushrooms to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another minute.
- Gradually mix in the chicken stock and lemon juice, stirring continuously.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken placed in a roasting pan.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours.
- Rest the chicken for 10-15 minutes before carving.