Roast Chicken with Garlic and Mayonnaise develops a rich, deeply savory surface in the oven, garlic, black pepper, and the mayonnaise coating doing most of the work so the result is easy and the flavor is anything but.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg)
- 1 head garlic, grated or crushed
- 4 tablespoons mayonnaise or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon sunflower oil
- 1 bay leaf
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- 1
Rub the chicken all over with salt and let it rest for at least 1 hour.
- 2
Mix the garlic, black pepper, sunflower oil, and mayonnaise or sour cream into a smooth paste.
- 3
Coat the chicken evenly with the mixture.
- 4
Place the bay leaf in the cavity and transfer the chicken to a roasting dish.
- 5
Roast at 200°C (400°F) for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, until the skin is deep golden and the juices run clear when the thigh is pierced.
- 6
Rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Cook's Note
Salt the chicken at least 1 hour ahead so the seasoning reaches the meat before it goes in the oven.
Best Served With
Boiled buckwheat, steamed rice, or sliced cucumbers
Why This Recipe Works
Salt gives the chicken time to season properly, while garlic and mayonnaise help build color and a richer surface in the oven. A simple coating keeps the meat savory without needing a long ingredient list.
Make It Yours
- Use sour cream instead of mayonnaise for a lighter finish.
- Add paprika for a warmer color.
- Tuck extra garlic under the skin for deeper flavor.
- Serve it with roasted potatoes instead of bread.
Leftover Strategy
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or a skillet, then chop extra chicken into Tender Chicken Salad with Pineapple and Apple.
Want to impress guests with this dish? Ask Jeff →
Pairing
Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon balances the garlicky roast chicken;
rosemary almonds ↗ make an easy pantry-side bite.
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