Roasted chicken is a classic dish that never fails to impress. This recipe guarantees juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin, perfect for any occasion. Follow these simple steps to create a memorable meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients for Roasted Chicken:
1. Whole Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken, approximately 4-5 pounds
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 tablespoon
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Fresh Thyme: 3-4 sprigs
- Fresh Rosemary: 3-4 sprigs
- Lemon: 1, halved
- Garlic Cloves: 4-5, peeled
How to Make Roasted Chicken:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the giblets from the chicken cavity, if any, and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken all over with olive oil, ensuring to coat evenly. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, rubbing the seasoning into the skin.
2. Stuff the Chicken:
- Stuff the cavity of the chicken with fresh thyme, rosemary sprigs, lemon halves, and peeled garlic cloves. This will infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors as it roasts.
3. Roast the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting pan or a cast iron skillet. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine if desired for even cooking.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
- Baste the chicken with pan juices halfway through roasting to ensure moistness and even browning of the skin.
4. Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
- Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
About the Main Ingredients:
Whole Chicken: Using a whole chicken ensures that you get a variety of textures and flavors from both the white and dark meat. It’s economical and perfect for feeding a family or guests.
Fresh Herbs and Citrus: Fresh thyme, rosemary, and lemon infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors while roasting, enhancing its overall taste and aroma.
Enjoy this Amazing Roasted Chicken Recipe as a centerpiece for your next family dinner or gathering. Its simplicity and deliciousness will make it a favorite in your kitchen!
