On  a recent trip to France I spent some time on the Mediterranean coast.  We were based in Nice and had a driver that took us exploring the tiny French villages of the area.  To say it was picturesque would be an understatement, a virtual treasure trove of sights sounds and flavors. We even enjoyed one afternoon in Italy after driving over the border..

Our last night in Nice was spent at a local restaurant where I ordered Roasted Chicken and Potatoes.  Pretty basic I know, but when you have been traveling for 2 weeks, sometimes you just want something traditional.   It was the very best I have ever tasted.  Could it have been the salt air?  Maybe, but I think it was the perfectly caramelized potatoes yielding a rich sweet flavor.

Since then, I am convinced a bit of extra roasting time for the potatoes before you add the chicken to the pan makes all the difference.  I hope you will try my Mediterranean Roasted Chicken and Potatoes soon!

Enjoy!  Lorie

Mediterranean Roasted Chicken with Potatoes

4 large chicken breasts

4 pounds baking potatoes peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes

¼ cup flat leaf parsley chopped

1 clove garlic pressed

¼ cup olive oil

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary finely chopped

1 teaspoon fresh thyme

2 tablespoons capers

Salt and pepper

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  In a small bowl combine all herbs with garlic and olive oil.  Rub the chicken breast generously with ½ of the olive oil mixture season with salt and pepper and set chicken aside on a plate.  Place potatoes in greased 9×13 baking dish.  Toss potatoes well with remaining oil and herb mixture and a generous amount of salt and pepper.  Bake potatoes uncovered for about 20 minutes.  Remove potatoes from oven and add chicken breasts to the top and top with capers.  Return dish to the oven and continue to cook for 35 minute until chicken is cooked through.  Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving.