Roast Chicken with Warm Bread Salad – Rustic, Flavorful, and Comforting

This Roast Chicken with Warm Bread Salad is a hearty yet wholesome dish that combines golden, juicy roast chicken with a rustic salad of warm, toasty bread cubes, tender greens, and a light vinaigrette. Every bite is a perfect mix of crisp, savory chicken and bright, tangy salad. It’s a complete meal that feels both indulgent and balanced — perfect for family dinners or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Juicy, Flavorful Chicken – Roasted to perfection with crispy skin and tender meat.
Hearty and Light – Warm bread and greens make this satisfying without being heavy.
Bright and Tangy – A simple vinaigrette ties everything together with fresh flavor.
One-Pan Friendly – Minimal dishes and a seamless combination of flavors.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3½–4 lbs)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving

For the warm bread salad:

• 4 cups day-old whole wheat bread, cut into cubes
• 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, or spring mix)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Roast the Chicken
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat chicken dry and rub with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Place on a roasting pan or baking sheet. Roast for 1 hour–1 hour 15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let rest 10 minutes before carving.

2. Prepare the Bread Salad
About 15 minutes before the chicken is done, spread bread cubes on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes until crisp and golden.

3. Make the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.

4. Assemble the Salad
Toss the toasted bread and mixed greens in the dressing until well coated. The warm bread will slightly wilt the greens, creating a tender, flavorful salad.

5. Serve
Carve the roast chicken and serve alongside the warm bread salad, garnished with lemon wedges.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 390
Protein: 32g
Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Rest the Chicken – Letting it rest after roasting keeps it juicy.
• Use Stale Bread – Day-old bread holds up better and absorbs the dressing nicely.
• Add Extras – Toss in cherry tomatoes or shaved Parmesan for extra flavor.
• Serve Warm – The salad is best served while the bread is still warm.

Why This Recipe Works

This dish brings together the comfort of a roast chicken dinner and the freshness of a salad in one plate. The warm bread soaks up the tangy dressing while adding substance, and the greens keep it light and bright. It’s a satisfying yet balanced meal that feels both rustic and refined.

Roast Chicken with Warm Bread Salad is a simple, flavorful way to enjoy a classic dinner with a modern twist. With juicy chicken, crisp bread, and vibrant greens, it’s a meal that hits all the right notes — hearty, healthy, and utterly delicious.