Simply Roasted Chicken

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the chicken. Remove any giblets from inside the chicken’s cavity (these can be discarded or saved for making homemade stock). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up nicely during roasting.

2. Season the Chicken

Drizzle the chicken with olive oil or melted butter, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This helps the skin become golden and crispy while roasting. Generously season the chicken inside and out with salt and pepper. Don’t be afraid to be liberal with the seasoning, as it will enhance the flavor.

Sprinkle the garlic powder (or minced fresh garlic) on the chicken, followed by the dried thyme and rosemary. If you’re using fresh herbs, you can stuff some into the cavity of the chicken for added fragrance and flavor. Place the lemon halves and quartered onion inside the cavity of the chicken to infuse the meat with a subtle citrus and savory taste as it roasts.

3. Tie the Legs (Optional)

For a more uniform roast and to help the chicken cook evenly, you can tie the legs together using kitchen twine. This step is optional but can help with presentation and even cooking.

4. Roast the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken breast-side up on a roasting pan or a rimmed baking sheet. If you’d like, you can pour some chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to help keep the chicken moist while roasting, but this is optional.

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the size of the bird. A good rule of thumb is to roast the chicken for about 20 minutes per pound. To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh. The internal temperature should read 165°F (75°C) when it’s done.

5. Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is roasted to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat stays juicy and tender when you cut into it.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Carve the chicken into pieces, serving the juicy, tender meat alongside your favorite sides. The crispy skin is perfect for snacking, or you can serve it on the side for added flavor. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Tips for the Perfect Roasted Chicken

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This helps avoid overcooking or undercooking the chicken.
• Add Vegetables: You can add root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips around the chicken while roasting. These vegetables will absorb the delicious chicken juices and become tender and flavorful.
• Keep the Skin Crispy: Avoid covering the chicken with foil while roasting, as this can trap moisture and prevent the skin from becoming crispy.
• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and marinades to give your roasted chicken a unique twist. Try adding paprika for a smoky flavor or cumin for a Middle Eastern flair.
• Make Gravy: After roasting, use the drippings from the pan to make a simple gravy. Just whisk the drippings with a bit of flour and chicken broth to create a rich and flavorful sauce to accompany your chicken.

Why This Roasted Chicken Recipe Works

Simply roasted chicken is the epitome of comfort food—it’s easy to make, requires only a few basic ingredients, and results in a meal that is both flavorful and satisfying. The combination of olive oil (or butter), herbs, and citrus infuses the chicken with incredible taste, while the slow roasting ensures the skin becomes wonderfully crispy and the meat remains juicy and tender.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this roasted chicken recipe will give you great results every time. It’s an ideal dish for feeding a crowd or making a delicious family dinner with minimal effort. And with all the tasty leftovers, you can create new meals like chicken salad, sandwiches, or soups the next day.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about simply roasted chicken—it’s a meal that brings people together and satisfies all the senses. With a little seasoning, a whole chicken, and your oven, you can create a hearty, flavorful dish that will be the star of any meal. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please everyone around the table. Happy roasting!