A perfectly roast chicken is juicy, flavorful, and crispy on the outside. This simple recipe will guide you through the process of achieving a beautifully roasted chicken that’s great for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh onion (or 1 teaspoon onion powder)
- 1 teaspoon dried or fresh thyme
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4-5 garlic cloves, crushed (optional)
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or parsley) for stuffing (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Remove the chicken from its packaging, and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin.
3. Rub the olive oil or melted butter all over the chicken, including under the skin for extra flavor. Squeeze the juice of one lemon half over the chicken, then place both halves inside the cavity along with the crushed garlic cloves and any fresh herbs you’re using.
4. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic, onion, and thyme, ensuring to coat the entire bird.
5. If desired, you can tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the chicken to promote even cooking.
6. Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or on a baking sheet, adding a small amount of water just to cover the bottom of the pan. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, and the juices run clear.
7. For extra flavor and moisture, you can baste the chicken with its own juices halfway through cooking.
8. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
9. Carve the chicken into pieces and serve with your favorite sides. The roasted lemon and garlic can be served alongside for added flavor.
Aprile's Kitchen 