ROAST BASIL CHICKEN, BASIL BABY POTATOES, FRISEE PLUM SALAD

Roast Basil Chicken, Basil Baby Potatoes, Frisee Plum Salad image

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Time 1h10m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 13

Kosher salt
3 cups fresh basil leaves
1 stick unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 clove garlic, grated
Finely grated zest of 1 lemon
1 3 1/2-pound chicken
Freshly ground pepper
1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon whole-grain mustard
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 head frisee, torn (about 5 cups)
2 plums, cut into 1/2-inch wedges

Steps:

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and set a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet. Bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups basil; cook 30 seconds, then drain and rinse under cold water. Transfer to a food processor and puree with the butter, garlic, lemon zest and 1/2 teaspoon salt until smooth. Set aside.
Spatchcock the chicken: Cut along each side of the backbone with kitchen shears; discard the backbone. Open the chicken like a book; flip over. Press down on the backbone to flatten. Gently loosen the skin from the breasts and thighs using your fingers. Transfer half of the basil butter to a bowl and rub all over the chicken and under the skin; season with salt and pepper. Transfer skin-side up to the rack. Roast until the skin is browned and crisp and a thermometer inserted into a thigh registers 165 degrees F, about 45 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, fill a medium saucepan with water; season with salt and add the potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 12 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl; toss with half of the remaining basil butter and season with salt and pepper.
Whisk the vinegar and mustard in a large bowl. Gradually whisk in the olive oil. Add the frisee, plums and the remaining 1 cup basil. Season with salt and pepper; gently toss to coat. Spread the remaining basil butter over the chicken; carve. Serve with the potatoes and salad.