As the aroma of roasted chicken fills my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of comfort wash over me. There’s something truly special about bringing simple ingredients together to create a meal that feels like a warm embrace. This Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad is my go-to recipe when I crave a blend of Mediterranean flavors that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. With juicy chicken quarters paired with sweet shallots, and a vibrant olive salad, you’ll find it serves wonderfully as a crowd-pleaser or a cozy weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Are you ready to bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your table? Let’s dive in!
Why is this recipe a must-try?
Comforting yet Elegant: This Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad brings together two beloved culinary worlds—comfort food and Mediterranean flair. Quick Preparation: With minimal effort, you can create a dish that looks gourmet! Plus, it’s ready in about an hour. Flavor Explosion: The sweet shallots combined with the briny olives create a wonderfully rich taste experience that will leave your taste buds singing. Versatile and Adapts: Easily swap ingredients based on your pantry—explore different olives or herbs for a unique spin. For more inspiration, check out my Crockpot Chicken Nachos or Ingredient Italian Chicken. This recipe is perfect for impressing guests or making a cozy family dinner!
Chicken Quarters with Shallots Ingredients
• Discover the key components for a delightful meal!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Leg Quarters – The hearty base of the dish; substitute with chicken thighs if leg quarters aren’t available.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavor; sea salt works as an alternative.
For the Shallots
- Shallots – Sweetens beautifully when roasted; can be replaced with onions in a pinch.
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Adds moisture and a rich flavor; any mild olive oil can be used instead.
For the Olive Salad
- Castelvetrano Olives – These lend a sweet, buttery taste; green olives can substitute effectively.
- Kalamata Olives – Provide a tangy depth; feel free to use any black olives as a swap.
- Capers – Adds a briny punch for flavor; consider omitting for a less salty profile.
- Parsley Leaves – Brings freshness and color; basil can be an aromatic alternative.
For Flavoring
- Garlic Clove – A key player for depth of flavor; you can swap in garlic powder for ease.
- Italian Seasoning – A blend of dried herbs for a flavor boost; use your favorite mix if preferred.
- Red Wine Vinegar – Infuses acidity and brightness; lemon juice can be used as a milder alternative.
- Sea Salt and Black Pepper – Season to taste, bringing everything together.
With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating the irresistible Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preheating is essential for even cooking, ensuring that the chicken quarters turn out perfectly golden and crispy. While the oven comes to temperature, gather all your ingredients, and get ready to assemble this delightful Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels, which helps achieve a crispy skin. Season generously with kosher salt on both sides. Place the chicken skin-side up on a rimmed baking sheet, leaving a space in the center for the shallots. This arrangement allows the chicken to roast evenly, ensuring maximum flavor.
Step 3: Add the Shallots
Slice the shallots and arrange them in the center of the baking sheet around the chicken. Drizzle the shallots with 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil to enhance their sweetness during roasting. The combination of the chicken and shallots will create a beautiful aromatic base for your Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad as they roast together.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken and Shallots
Carefully place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes. The chicken is done when the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The shallots should be tender and caramelized, with a fragrant sweetness that complements the chicken beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare the Olive Salad
While the chicken and shallots are roasting, prepare the olive salad in a mixing bowl. Combine Castelvetrano olives, Kalamata olives, capers, fresh parsley leaves, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Drizzle in the remaining olive oil and red wine vinegar, then season with sea salt and black pepper. Toss everything together until well mixed for a vibrant, tangy contrast to the roasted chicken.
Step 6: Plate and Serve
Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a platter, placing the roasted shallots on top. Generously spoon the prepared olive salad over the chicken quarters to create a colorful and appetizing presentation. If you crave extra crispiness, broil the chicken for about 3 minutes until it’s perfectly charred.
Chicken Quarters with Shallots Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own, turning each bite into a delightful surprise!
- Thighs Instead: Swap chicken leg quarters for thighs for a tender and juicy option that cooks up beautifully.
- Red Onions: Replace shallots with red onions if you prefer a more robust flavor; they’ll caramelize similarly!
- Mixed Olives: Use a mix of your favorite olives like green and black for a delightful explosion of flavors in the salad.
- Add Vegetables: Roast veggies such as bell peppers or zucchini alongside the chicken for extra nutrition and vibrant colors.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest in the olive salad for a bright, fresh twist that pairs well with the chicken.
- Seasoning Variations: Try using fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in place of the Italian seasoning for a unique flavor profile.
- Heat It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive salad for a subtle kick that will elevate the entire dish!
- Balsamic Vinegar: Substitute red wine vinegar with balsamic for a sweeter, tangy twist that pairs beautifully with the roasted chicken.
For more culinary inspiration, you might enjoy my Lazy Chicken Parmesan or a delicious twist with Chicken Chimichangas Perfectly. Happy cooking!
Expert Tips for Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad
- Crispy Skin Secret: Pat chicken dry: Ensure the chicken skin is patted dry before seasoning to achieve that golden, crispy texture we all love.
- Shallot Slices: Cut thicker slices: Opt for thicker shallots to prevent burning while roasting, allowing them to caramelize beautifully.
- Flavorful Preparation: Make salad in advance: Prepare the olive salad a day ahead; it allows the flavors to deepen and meld together nicely.
- Temperature Check: Always check internal temp: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken quarters reach 165°F for safe and juicy results.
- Ingredient Flexibility: Substitute wisely: Feel free to swap olives and herbs based on what you have on hand; this Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad can easily be customized!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep everything fresh and flavorful!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and salad separately in airtight containers. The chicken can be stored for up to 2 months; the salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month if needed.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Reheat the olive salad gently in the microwave or at room temperature to preserve its texture.
Wrap Well: If freezing, ensure all items are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. A layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil works wonders!
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken and prepare the shallots up to 24 hours in advance. Simply pat the chicken dry, season it with kosher salt, and store it covered in the refrigerator. The shallots can be sliced and kept in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. As for the olive salad, feel free to mix that up to 3 days ahead; it only gets better as the flavors meld together. When ready to enjoy, bake the chicken as instructed, and simply add the olive salad just before serving for a meal that tastes just as delicious with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad
Creating a delightful dinner experience doesn’t stop at the main course; consider these wonderful pairings to enhance your meal.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery texture of creamy mashed potatoes perfectly complements the tender chicken, soaking up the savory juices and balancing flavors beautifully.
Crisp Green Salad: A fresh green salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch—perfect for cutting through the richness of the chicken.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is ideal for wiping up all the savory juices from the plate. It also adds a comforting element to your meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring color and a sweet caramelization that pairs wonderfully with the olive salad, creating a wholesome and vibrant plate.
Lemon Rice Pilaf: The bright citrus notes from lemon-infused rice contrast splendidly with the richness of the chicken and olives, offering a palate-cleansing bite.
Herbed Quinoa: Light, fluffy quinoa cooked with fresh herbs blends well with the Mediterranean theme and adds a nutty flavor that’s simply satisfying.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp, chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish’s flavors while enhancing the overall dining experience.
Tiramisu: For dessert, a classic tiramisu adds a delightful sweetness, rounding out the meal with its rich coffee and cocoa flavors—sure to please any sweet tooth.
Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose chicken leg quarters?
Absolutely! Look for chicken leg quarters with smooth skin, no dark spots, and a bright color. Fresh chicken should feel firm and slightly cool to the touch. If frozen, ensure they are solid without any signs of freezer burn.
How should I store leftover Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad?
You can store leftover Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the salad separate if you plan to store it, as the flavors can change if left together for too long.
Can I freeze Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken! Place the cooled chicken quarters in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and they can be frozen for up to 2 months. The olive salad, however, is best fresh, but if you must freeze it, you can do so for up to 1 month. Be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How do I ensure the chicken skin turns out crispy?
To achieve that heavenly crispy skin, start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. Dry skin equals crispier results! Also, roasting it at a high temperature (425°F) helps the skin crisp up beautifully. If you desire extra crunch, briefly broil the chicken at the end for about 3 minutes.
Is this recipe suitable for individuals with olive allergies?
While Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad contains both Castelvetrano and Kalamata olives, you can easily modify the recipe. Consider substituting with cooked artichoke hearts or simply omitting the olives altogether to maintain the dish’s essence without the allergy risk.
What should I do if my shallots burn while roasting?
If you notice your shallots are burning, it’s likely they were sliced too thinly. For next time, opt for thicker slices to promote even caramelization without burning. You can also cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil halfway through roasting to shield them from direct heat until the chicken is appropriately cooked.
Savory Chicken Quarters with Shallots and Olive Salad Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat the chicken leg quarters dry with paper towels and season generously with kosher salt on both sides.
- Slice the shallots and arrange them in the center of the baking sheet around the chicken. Drizzle the shallots with extra-virgin olive oil.
- Roast for 35-40 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Prepare the olive salad in a mixing bowl by combining olives, capers, parsley, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and red wine vinegar, then season with salt and pepper. Toss well.
- Once chicken is cooked, transfer to a platter with shallots on top and spoon the olive salad over the chicken quarters.
- Broil the chicken for about 3 minutes for extra crispiness.