Roast Chicken
A perfectly juicy and tender whole chicken, roasted with fragrant herbs, lemon, and garlic. The skin is crispy and golden, making it an impressive centerpiece for any family dinner or special occasion.
For 4 servings
8 steps. 75 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare the Chicken and Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C)
- a.Remove the chicken from its packaging and take out the giblets from the cavity (save them for stock if desired). Pat the entire chicken, inside and out, completely dry with paper towels. This is key for crispy skin. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
- 2
Season Generously: Drizzle the olive oil all over the chicken
- a.Use your hands to rub it evenly over the entire surface. In a small bowl, mix the coarse sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix generously all over the outside of the chicken and inside the cavity.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Stuff with Aromatics: Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the halved lemon, halved garlic head, quartered onion, and the sprigs of fresh thyme and rosemary. These will steam inside the chicken, infusing the meat with incredible flavor.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Truss and Prepare for Roasting: Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan, preferably on a rack to allow air to circulate. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body. This helps the chicken cook more evenly.
- 5
Roast the Chicken: Place the pan in the preheated oven
- a.Roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes to get the skin browning. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting for another 60-75 minutes.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when the juices run clear when you pierce the thigh, and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (not touching bone) reads 165°F (74°C).
- 7
Step 7
- a.Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and carefully transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it is moist and tender.
- 8
Carve and Serve: After resting, carve the chicken and serve immediately
- a.Enjoy with your favorite side dishes like roasted potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crispy skin, you can dry-brine the chicken by salting it and leaving it uncovered in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours before roasting.
- 2A meat thermometer is the most reliable tool for perfectly cooked chicken. Don't guess!
- 3Letting the chicken come to room temperature for 30 minutes before roasting ensures more even cooking.
- 4Save the carcass and bones after carving to make a delicious and nutritious homemade chicken stock.
- 5For a simple pan gravy, remove the chicken and pour off all but 2 tablespoons of fat from the pan. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, cook for a minute, then slowly whisk in 1-2 cups of chicken broth until smooth. Simmer until thickened.
Adapt it for your goals.
Herb Butter Rub
Instead of olive oil, mix 4 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, sage, and thyme), and lemon zest. Gently separate the skin from the breast meat and rub this compound butter underneath the skin before roasting.
Add Root VegetablesAdd Root Vegetables
Toss chopped carrots, potatoes, and parsnips with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them in the roasting pan around the chicken during the last 45-50 minutes of cooking for a complete one-pan meal.
Citrus and SpiceCitrus and Spice
Swap the lemon for a halved orange and add a pinch of smoked paprika and onion powder to the salt and pepper mix for a different flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken is a high-quality protein source, crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Rich in B Vitamins
Chicken provides essential B vitamins like niacin (B3) and pyridoxine (B6), which are vital for energy production, brain function, and the formation of red blood cells.
Supports Bone Health
The protein, phosphorus, and selenium found in chicken contribute to maintaining strong and healthy bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
Frequently asked questions
A 300g serving of this roast chicken (mixed white and dark meat with skin) contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending on the exact ratio of meat to skin consumed.