Garlic Herb Roast Chicken with Creamy Sage Potatoes

This delightful roast chicken recipe combines the traditional flavors of garlic, sage, and rosemary with a creamy twist from the milk and butter, resulting in a succulent and flavorful dish. The creamy sage potatoes complement the chicken perfectly, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Ideal for family dinners, this dish is both easy to prepare and impressive enough for special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ground sage
• 1 tablespoon ground rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, ground sage, ground rosemary, salt, and pepper to create a herb butter.
3. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Gently separate the skin from the chicken breast and thighs using your fingers, being careful not to tear the skin. Spread half of the herb butter under the skin, and rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the chicken.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and pour the milk around the chicken, ensuring that some of the milk is also inside the cavity of the chicken for added moisture.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. Baste the chicken with the milk mixture halfway through roasting.
6. While the chicken is roasting, prepare the creamy sage potatoes. Boil the potato chunks in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
7. Add the remaining milk, a pinch of salt, and ground sage to the potatoes. Mash until creamy and smooth, adjusting seasoning to taste.
8. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve the chicken alongside the creamy sage potatoes, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.