Roasted Chicken Recipe

Roasted chicken is a timeless classic, cherished for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, mastering the art of roasted chicken is a culinary milestone. This guide will walk you through a foolproof roasted chicken recipe, complete with tips and tricks to ensure your bird is perfectly cooked every time.

Ingredients

To start, gather the following ingredients:

1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
1 lemon, halved
4 garlic cloves, smashed
1 onion, quartered
2-3 sprigs of fresh parsley (optional)
1 cup chicken broth or water

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help to achieve a crispy, golden-brown skin while keeping the meat juicy and tender.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Remove the chicken from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Dry skin is key to a crispy finish.

Rub the chicken all over with olive oil or melted butter. This will help the seasonings adhere and promote browning.

Season the chicken generously with kosher salt and black pepper, making sure to season inside the cavity as well.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the halved lemon, garlic cloves, onion quarters, and parsley sprigs. These aromatics will infuse the meat with wonderful flavors as it roasts.

Step 4: Season the Skin

Sprinkle the chopped rosemary and thyme over the chicken, pressing the herbs into the skin to help them stick. For an extra flavor boost, you can also rub some of the herbs under the skin.

Roasting

Step 5: Set Up the Roasting Pan

Place the chicken, breast side up, on a rack in a roasting pan. If you don’t have a rack, you can use a bed of roughly chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. This not only prevents the chicken from sticking to the pan but also adds flavor to the drippings.

Pour the chicken broth or water into the bottom of the pan to keep the drippings from burning and to create a flavorful base for gravy, if desired.

Step 6: Roast the Chicken

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, without touching the bone.

Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking to keep it moist.

Step 7: Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.

Serving

Carve the chicken by removing the legs and thighs first, then the wings, and finally the breasts. Serve with your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a fresh green salad are classic choices.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Chicken

Choose Quality: Opt for a high-quality chicken, preferably organic or free-range, for the best flavor and texture.
Dry Brine: For extra crispy skin, you can dry brine the chicken. Season it with salt and let it sit uncovered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before roasting.
Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure there’s enough space around the chicken in the pan to allow for even roasting.
Thermometer Check: A meat thermometer is your best friend. Check the temperature in multiple spots to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Roasted chicken is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With this simple yet effective recipe, you’ll be able to prepare a perfectly roasted chicken that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this classic recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy!

Feel free to share this post with friends and family who appreciate good food. Happy roasting!