baked chicken whole recipe

baked chicken whole recipe

The Best baked chicken whole recipe

I am so excited to share with you my favorite baked chicken whole recipe. I have been making this recipe for years, and it never fails to impress my family and friends. The key to this recipe is the technique of baking the chicken whole, which ensures that the meat stays juicy and flavorful.

This recipe has its roots in traditional Mediterranean cuisine, where chicken is often cooked whole and served with a variety of herbs and spices. As a busy mom, I love that this recipe is easy to make and requires minimal preparation. Simply season the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices, drizzle with olive oil, and bake until cooked through.

The result is a deliciously moist and flavorful chicken that is perfect for any occasion. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it on its own, or pair it with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

The possibilities are endless! In addition to being delicious, this recipe is also incredibly healthy. Chicken is a lean protein source that’s packed with nutrients, and when cooked whole, it retains all of its natural flavors and textures.

This makes it a great option for families looking for a healthy meal solution. My family loves this recipe because it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. My kids are particularly fond of the crispy skin that forms on the outside of the chicken – it’s like a little present wrapped around their favorite food!

If you’re looking for a new recipe to try out, I highly recommend giving this one a shot. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Baked Whole Chicken

Baked Whole Chicken

4.6 from 700 votes

A classic baked whole chicken recipe with a simple seasoning. This dish is perfect for a family dinner and easy to prepare.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
1 lemon
1 head of garlic
1 bunch fresh thyme
1 bunch fresh rosemary
salt
black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Basting Sauce

1/4 cup butter
2 cloves garlic
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
salt
black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2Pat the chicken dry with paper towels inside and out, this will help the skin crisp up.
3Season the chicken generously with salt and black pepper inside and out.
4Place the lemon, garlic, thyme, and rosemary inside the chicken cavity.
5Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub it all over the skin.
6This will help the skin brown nicely.
7Place the chicken breast side up in a roasting pan.
8Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
9While the chicken is roasting, prepare the basting sauce.
10Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
11Add the garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
12Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
13Remove from heat and set aside.
14After 30 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.
15Baste the chicken with the basting sauce using a basting brush.
16Roast for another 45-60 minutes, basting every 15 minutes.
17The chicken is done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh.
18Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
19This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken.

🔧Equipment

Roasting pan
Basting brush
Meat thermometer
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add potatoes or vegetables to the roasting pan for a complete meal. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked through.

Watch Video Of How Baked Whole Chicken Works

I love this whole baked chicken recipe because it is a classic dish that everyone enjoys, and it’s a great way to get a healthy meal on the table. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special celebration.

Plus, it’s a great way to teach kids about cooking and where food comes from. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does and will make it for your family and friends.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Whole Chicken

Q: What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?

This recipe works best with a whole chicken that’s around 3-4 pounds in weight. You can use either organic or non-organic chicken, whichever is available at your local grocery store.

Q: How long should I bake the chicken?

The baking time will depend on the size of your chicken and your oven’s temperature. As a general rule of thumb, you should bake the chicken at 425°F (220°C) for around 45-60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I cook the chicken in advance?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before serving. Simply let it come to room temperature before baking.

Q: How do I ensure that the chicken stays moist?

The key to keeping the chicken moist is to not overcook it. Make sure to baste it with olive oil every 20 minutes or so during baking to keep it hydrated.

Q: Can I add any extra flavorings to the chicken?

Yes, you can add any extra flavorings you like to the chicken before baking. Some options include lemon juice, garlic powder, dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even chopped onions or bell peppers.

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