Swedish Style Chicken with Apples and Plums

This recipe is a cherished family favorite passed down from my talented mother-in-law. The combination of tender chicken, sweet apples, juicy plums, and fragrant curry creates a cozy and unforgettable meal that your loved ones will adore.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken

• Salt and curry powder (to taste)

• 30 g butter (sliced)

• 1 kg apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)

• 10–15 plums (fresh or dried)

• 2 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

   • Peel, core, and chop the apples into bite-sized pieces.

   • For fresh plums, wash them thoroughly, remove the pits, and cut them into quarters. No additional preparation is needed if using dried plums. However, for extra juiciness, you can soak them in warm water for 15–20 minutes before baking.

2. Season the Chicken

   • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then generously season it with salt and curry powder, rubbing the seasoning all over the chicken for maximum flavor.

3. Arrange in the Baking Dish

   • Place the seasoned chicken in the center of a large baking dish.

   • Scatter the chopped apples and prepared plums around the chicken.

   • Distribute slices of butter evenly over the chicken, apples, and plums.

4. Bake the Chicken

   • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

   • Roast the chicken for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time (30 minutes in), drizzle the lemon juice over the apples and plums to enhance their flavor.

5. Check for Doneness

   • The chicken is done when the internal temperature of the thickest part of the meat (like the breast) reaches 75°C (165°F), or the juices run clear when pierced with a knife.

6. Serve and Enjoy

   • Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve it with the roasted apples, plums, and their juices spooned over the top for a flavorful, comforting meal.