Big Sunday Chopped Salad and Simple Roast Chicken Recipe

There's something timeless about a roast chicken meal.

The aroma of herbs filling the kitchen, a fresh salad waiting on the table, and family gathering together for a relaxed meal are traditions that never go out of style.

In this episode of Happy Home Kitchen, Chef Makeda prepares a simple herb-roasted chicken paired with a colourful chopped salad and creamy homemade dressing. It's a meal that feels comforting, balanced, and perfect for a Sunday afternoon.

Ingredients

For the Herb-Roasted Chicken

• 1 whole chicken (approximately 2 pounds)

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary

• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme

• 1 tablespoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 1 cup chicken stock

For the Chopped Salad

• ½ romaine lettuce, chopped

• Handful of baby spinach

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• ½ red onion, sliced

• ½ large cucumber, chopped

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• ½ cup black olives

• 2 tablespoons capers

• 3 ounces feta cheese

For the Creamy Dressing

• 1 cup Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon honey

• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).

Starting with a properly heated oven helps ensure even cooking and beautiful browning.

Step 2: Make the Herb Marinade

In a bowl, combine:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary

• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme

• 1 tablespoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

Mix well until everything is combined into a fragrant herb marinade.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Place the whole chicken into a baking pan.

Rub the herb marinade over the entire surface of the chicken, making sure every area is evenly coated.

This layer of herbs and seasoning helps create flavourful, golden skin during roasting.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken

Pour 1 cup of chicken stock into the baking pan.

Place the chicken in the oven and roast for approximately 75 minutes.

The chicken is ready when:

• The juices run clear

• The internal temperature reaches a safe level

• The skin becomes golden brown

Allow the chicken to rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Resting helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it tender and moist.

Why Roast Chicken Remains a Sunday Favourite

Roast chicken has been a traditional family meal in many cultures for generations.

Sunday cooking often moves at a slower pace.

The oven stays warm, herbs perfume the kitchen, and family naturally gathers around the table.

Part of the appeal is its simplicity.

A few quality ingredients come together to create something comforting, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.

Step 5: Prepare the Vegetables

Chop:

• ½ romaine lettuce

• 1 red bell pepper

• ½ red onion

• ½ large cucumber

Slice:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes

Fresh vegetables provide colour, texture, and balance alongside the roasted chicken.

Step 6: Build the Salad

In a large bowl, combine:

• Romaine lettuce

• Baby spinach

• Cherry tomatoes

• Bell pepper

• Cucumber

• Red onion

• Black olives

• Capers

• Feta cheese

Toss gently until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a separate bowl, combine:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 teaspoon honey

• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

• Salt and pepper

Whisk until smooth and creamy.

The dressing adds richness while still keeping the salad fresh and light.

Step 8: Dress the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad.

Toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.

The result is a colourful, flavour-packed salad that complements the roasted chicken beautifully.

Step 9: Serve

Carve the rested roast chicken and serve alongside the chopped salad.

The combination of:

• Herb-roasted chicken

• Crisp vegetables

• Creamy dressing

• Tangy feta

• Savoury olives and capers

creates a balanced meal that's both satisfying and refreshing.

Why This Meal Works So Well

This is the kind of meal that feels rewarding after a productive day.

Fresh ingredients provide brightness and crunch.

The roast chicken adds warmth and comfort.

Together, they create a meal that feels complete without being complicated.

Whether you're serving family, hosting friends, or simply enjoying a quiet Sunday at home, this recipe delivers flavour, simplicity, and comfort in every bite.

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