how to bake whole chicken recipe

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The Best how to bake whole chicken recipe

I’ve been making this whole chicken recipe for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorites. It’s a classic dish that’s easy to make and always a hit.

The key to this recipe is the way the chicken cooks evenly throughout, resulting in tender and juicy meat. I love that it’s a one-pan meal, so cleanup is a breeze.

My kids can’t get enough of the crispy skin and flavorful meat. We often serve it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, but it’s also great on its own or with a side salad.

I’ve made this recipe for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just a quick weeknight dinner. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

I’ve experimented with different seasonings and marinades over the years, but the basic recipe remains the same. I’ve found that using fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary adds a lot of flavor without overpowering the chicken.

This recipe is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too.

Perfectly Baked Whole Chicken

4.8 from 665 votes

A simple and foolproof method for baking a whole chicken that results in crispy skin and juicy meat. This recipe uses a dry brine and high heat to achieve a golden-brown exterior and tender interior.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 lemon, halved
4 sprigs fresh rosemary
4 cloves garlic, smashed
2 tablespoons olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and pat it completely dry with paper towels, inside and out.
3Season the chicken cavity with salt and pepper.
4Stuff the cavity with the lemon halves, rosemary sprigs, and smashed garlic cloves.
5Rub the olive oil all over the chicken skin.
6Season the outside of the chicken generously with the remaining salt and pepper.
7Tie the chicken legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body.
8Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan.
9Roast the chicken for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the skin is deep golden brown and a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F.
10Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for 15 minutes before carving.
11This allows the juices to redistribute for a moist result.

🔧Equipment

Roasting pan
Meat thermometer
Kitchen twine
Paper towels

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 150mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

For extra crispy skin, let the seasoned chicken sit uncovered in the refrigerator for 2 to 24 hours before roasting. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Watch Video Of How Perfectly Baked Whole Chicken Works

This whole chicken recipe is a game-changer for any occasion. It’s easy to make and always impresses our guests.

The best part is that it’s a one-pan meal that requires minimal cleanup. We love serving it with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, but it’s also great on its own or with a side salad.

One thing to note is that this recipe makes great leftovers – simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze them for up to two months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Perfectly Baked Whole Chicken

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

For this recipe, you’ll want to use a whole chicken that weighs around 3-4 pounds. You can usually find these at your local grocery store or butcher shop.

Q: How do I prepare the chicken for baking?

To prepare the chicken, you’ll need to season it liberally with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. You can also rub it with some olive oil to help the seasonings adhere.

Q: Can I bake multiple chickens at once?

Yes, you can bake multiple chickens at once, but keep in mind that they may not cook evenly. If you’re planning to bake multiple chickens, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: What temperature should I bake the chicken at?

Bake the chicken at 425°F (220°C) for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Q: Can I use this recipe for other types of poultry?

This recipe works well with other types of poultry like turkey or duck, but you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

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