Perfectly Roasted Chicken

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour 15 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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This is your go-to guide for achieving a perfectly roasted chicken every time. With a handful of straightforward ingredients and a simple method, you’ll have a golden, crispy-skinned bird that’s juicy and flavorful. Let's dive in!

Ingredients for Perfectly Roasted Chicken

Whole chicken - The star of the show, providing juicy meat and a canvas for all the flavors. Opt for a bird that’s around 3-4 lbs for even cooking.

Olive oil - Adds richness and helps the skin crisp up beautifully.

Lemon - Offers a tangy brightness that cuts through the richness of the meat. Stuffing the halves inside also keeps the bird moist.

Garlic - Infuses a deep, aromatic flavor into the chicken. Crushing the cloves releases more of their essence.

Salt and black pepper - Essential for seasoning. They enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.

Dried thyme and rosemary - These herbs bring an earthy, aromatic note that complements the chicken perfectly.

Tips & Tricks

  • Bring the chicken to room temperature before roasting to ensure even cooking.
  • Tie the legs with kitchen twine for even roasting and a neat appearance.
  • Use a meat thermometer for accuracy — it takes the guesswork out of cooking.
  • Baste the chicken once or twice during cooking for extra crispy skin.

Serving Suggestions

This roasted chicken pairs beautifully with a simple side salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. For something heartier, try serving it with roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any delicious juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs will give a more vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.
What if I don’t have a roasting pan?
A cast-iron skillet or any oven-safe pan with sides will work just fine.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Perfectly Roasted Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is key to achieving that crispy skin we all love. While the oven is warming up, pat your chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the skin crisp up. Place the chicken in a roasting pan, making sure it's centered.

Now, drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and rub it in evenly with your hands, ensuring every inch is coated. This step is crucial for that golden finish. Next, grab your lemon, cut it in half, and squeeze the juice all over the chicken, catching any seeds. Place the squeezed halves inside the cavity for added flavor and moisture.

Peel the garlic cloves and give them a light crush with the side of a knife. This will help release more flavor. Tuck these into the cavity with the lemon. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary all over the chicken, using your hands to rub the spices into the skin. Ensure it's well-coated for maximum flavor.

Pop the chicken in your preheated oven and roast it for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the meat. If you don’t have a thermometer, check that the juices run clear when you cut between the leg and thigh.

Once done, let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist. Then, slice it up and dig in!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy preparation with minimal cleanup.
  • Uses simple, fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.
  • Consistently juicy meat with crispy, golden skin.
  • Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lemon
1 head garlic
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting pan.
3. Rub olive oil all over the chicken, ensuring an even coating.
4. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the chicken, placing the lemon halves inside the cavity.
5. Peel the garlic cloves, lightly crush them, and add them to the cavity.
6. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary, rubbing the spices into the skin.
7. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown.
8. Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

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