Get ready to elevate your dinner game with the mouthwatering "More Cluck for Your Buck Orange Rosemary Roast Chicken"! This succulent roast chicken, infused with zesty oranges and fragrant rosemary, will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe promises to impress without breaking the bank. With just a few simple ingredients and some expert tips, you'll create a dish that not only looks stunning on the table but also delivers an explosion of flavor in every bite. Ready to discover the secret to the perfect roast chicken? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
- 2 oranges, quartered
- 1/4 cup fresh rosemary
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Remove the whole chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures more even roasting.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C), positioning the rack in the center of the oven for optimal heat circulation.
- Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels to help achieve crispy, golden skin during roasting.
- In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, chopped fresh rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a fragrant herb rub.
- Gently separate the chicken skin from the meat using your fingers, being careful not to tear the skin, and massage the herb mixture directly onto the chicken meat.
- Stuff the chicken cavity with quartered oranges, which will infuse the meat with citrusy aromatics during roasting.
- Tie the chicken legs together with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking and help maintain the chicken's shape.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet, ensuring it's not overcrowded.
- Roast the chicken for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Baste the chicken with pan juices every 30 minutes to keep the meat moist and enhance flavor.
- Once cooked, remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 15-20 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Carve the chicken and serve with the roasted orange quarters for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: Always remove the chicken from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and ensures a juicy result.
- Preheat for Success: Make sure to preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and position the rack in the center for optimal heat distribution.
- Dry is Best: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to achieve that coveted crispy, golden skin during roasting.
- Herb Massage: Create a flavorful herb rub by mixing minced garlic, fresh rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Don’t forget to massage it directly onto the meat under the skin for maximum flavor.
- Citrus Infusion: Stuff the chicken cavity with quartered oranges. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat moist and tender.
- Tie it Up: Use kitchen twine to tie the chicken legs together. This helps the chicken cook evenly and maintain its shape.
- Baste for Moisture: Baste the chicken with pan juices every 30 minutes. This keeps the meat moist and enhances the overall flavor.
- Rest Before Carving: After roasting, let the chicken rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and flavorful.
- Serve with Style: Carve the chicken and serve it with the roasted orange quarters for a burst of citrus that complements the savory flavors beautifully.By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to mastering the art of roast chicken with a delightful twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 548kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 150mg
