Rustic Roasted Garlic Chicken with Asiago Gravy is a dish that marries the comforting flavors of tender, oven-roasted chicken with the rich and savory notes of Asiago cheese and roasted garlic.

Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering experience that’s both rustic and gourmet. Serve it with your favorite side dishes for an unforgettable meal.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Baking dish or cast-iron skillet
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Garlic roaster or aluminum foil
Measuring cups and spoons
Saucepan

Ingredients Overview

Chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts ensure maximum flavor and juiciness.
Garlic: Roasted garlic infuses the dish with deep, caramelized flavor.
Asiago Cheese: Adds a nutty, creamy element to the gravy.
Herbs & Spices: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley enhance the flavor.
Chicken Broth & Cream: Forms the base of the rich Asiago gravy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

For the Roasted Garlic:

1 head of garlic
1 teaspoon olive oil

For the Asiago Gravy:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Asiago cheese
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Roasted Garlic:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice the top off the garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-35 minutes until soft and caramelized. Once cool, squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves and set aside.
Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, rosemary, and thyme.
Roast the Chicken:
- Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish or skillet. Roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Make the Asiago Gravy:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Stir in the roasted garlic and heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the Asiago cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Spoon the Asiago gravy over the roasted chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

Choose High-Quality Cheese: Freshly grated Asiago cheese melts better and has a more robust flavor than pre-packaged options.
Double the Garlic: For garlic lovers, roast two heads of garlic and use extra in the gravy or as a spread.
Crispy Skin: For a crispier chicken skin, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of roasting.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Starches: Mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or buttered noodles pair wonderfully with the gravy.
Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a crisp Caesar salad add balance to the meal.
Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use boneless chicken?
A: Yes, but reduce the cooking time to prevent overcooking. Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well in this recipe.

Q: Can I substitute Asiago cheese?
A: Parmesan or Gruyere cheese can be used as substitutes, though the flavor profile will slightly differ.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes! The chicken and gravy can be prepared up to a day ahead and reheated gently on the stove or in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Rustic Roasted Garlic Chicken with Asiago Gravy is best served hot alongside a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the creamy, savory flavors. For a comforting dessert, consider ending the meal with a slice of warm apple pie or a creamy panna cotta.

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!