Coquelets Rotis: French-Style Roast Chicken

Ingredients

Coquelets (young chickens)

2

Lemon

1, sliced

Black pepper

1 teaspoon, freshly ground

Salt

2 teaspoons

Thyme

2 sprigs, fresh

Rosemary

2 sprigs, fresh

Garlic

4 cloves, minced

Olive oil

2 tablespoons

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Clean the coquelets by rinsing them under cold water. Pat them dry thoroughly using paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy skin on the chicken.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the coquelets, ensuring you get into all the nooks and crannies.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the coquelets, then place them in a roasting pan. Arrange the sprigs of rosemary, thyme, and lemon slices around and inside the birds.
5. Roast the coquelets in the preheated oven for approximately 45-60 minutes. The chickens are done when they turn a beautiful golden brown color and the juices run clear when a thigh is pierced with a skewer.
6. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let the coquelets rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist chicken.
7. Serve your Coquelets Rotis with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or some creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Enjoy!