Dutch Oven Whole Roast Chicken with Plums

This dish shines brightest in late summer to early fall, from August to October, when plums are at their peak. Their sweetness intensifies as the weather cools, adding the perfect burst of juice to your roast chicken. But you can make this recipe almost year-round.

Use simple, quality ingredients for the best results. Buy fresh, whole chicken from your local butcher or organic grocer. Choose extra virgin olive oil from a Mediterranean brand for deeper flavor. Find crisp, dry white wine in most liquor stores – Sauvignon Blanc, Encruzado, and Pinot Grigio work well. Plums are best in late summer from the farmers’ market, but grocery store produce sections work too. Oregano, salt, and pepper are standard pantry staples. Fresh parsley is available in the herb section of most supermarkets.

Absolutely! Here are some thoughtful substitutions to keep the Mediterranean flavor while adapting to what you have:

Chicken – use bone-in thighs or drumsticks if you don’t have a whole chicken.

Plums – swap with fresh nectarines, apricots, or figs for a fruity twist.

White wine – replace with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice or white vinegar.

Oregano – try dried thyme or rosemary for a different herbal note, but it will give a Mediterranean flavor.too

Parsley – use cilantro or basil for a fresher edge, or leave it out entirely.

For an appetizer, go with my simple Mediterranean Tomato Salad or Tomato Cucumber Feta Salad.

Pair this roast chicken with a quick Vegetable Ragout, or Mediterranean Baby Baked Potatoes.

For dessert, enjoy Strawberry Napoleons, Blueberry Tiramisu, Chocolate Raspberry Tart, and Raspberry Pavlova.

Here are my tips on how to make this whole chicken perfect:

1. Roast at 375°F (190°C).
2. Always rest the chicken for 10–15 minutes before slicing to let the juices redistribute.
3. The plums should nestle around the bird, not pile on top of it.
4. Chicken is done when the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).

You can pair this Dutch Oven Whole Roast Chicken with Plums with different drinks.

If you are a wine lover, pair with a chilled glass of dry Riesling, or Portuguese Vinho Verde (especially from Alvarinho grapes). It is very good!!

For a non-alcoholic, a sparkling water with a splash of pomegranate juice would be a perfect match.

If you are up for fancy cocktails, try a Porto Tonico cocktail.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) covered with foil/lid until warmed through.