Imagine the tantalizing aroma of a perfectly roasted chicken wafting through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table. This Simple Whole Roasted Chicken recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transforms an ordinary day into a special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a succulent, golden-brown chicken that will impress your family and friends. Ready to unlock the secrets to achieving crispy skin and juicy meat? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that promises to be a showstopper at your next gathering!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, halved
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
Instructions
- Remove the whole chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Position the oven rack in the middle of the oven for optimal heat circulation.
- Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve crispy, golden skin.
- Drizzle olive oil over the entire chicken, ensuring complete coverage. Massage the oil into the skin.
- Generously season the chicken inside and out with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Be sure to season under the wings and inside the cavity.
- Stuff the chicken cavity with lemon halves and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. This will infuse the meat with aromatic flavors during roasting.
- Tie the chicken legs together with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking and a more compact shape.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. The breast should face upward to help it cook more evenly.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven 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.
- Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps redistribute the juices and ensures a moist, tender result.
- Carve the chicken and serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: Always remove the chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This simple step ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden skin.
- Preheat Your Oven: Make sure to preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and position the rack in the middle. This allows for optimal heat circulation, which is key for even roasting.
- Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. A dry chicken skin is essential for achieving that crispy texture we all crave.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Season the chicken inside and out, including under the wings and inside the cavity, for maximum flavor.
- Flavor Infusion: Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat juicy.
- Truss for Even Cooking: Tying the legs together with kitchen twine helps the chicken cook evenly and maintain a compact shape, leading to better presentation.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh for safe and delicious results.
- Rest Before Carving: Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes after roasting. This crucial step redistributes the juices, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Garnish and Serve: Carve the chicken and serve it hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs for an elegant touch that enhances both flavor and presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
