oven roasted whole chicken recipe

oven roasted whole chicken recipe

The Best oven roasted whole chicken recipe

I’ve been making oven roasted whole chicken for years, and it’s still one of my go-to recipes for any occasion. My family loves it, and it’s so easy to make. I remember trying it for the first time when I was in college, and it quickly became a staple in my household.

The key to this recipe is the way the chicken cooks evenly throughout, and the flavors that come out of the oven are just amazing. The dish has its roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where chickens are often roasted whole over an open flame. But I’ve adapted it to suit my American tastes, with a blend of herbs and spices that add a depth of flavor you won’t find anywhere else.

One thing I love about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it on its own, or with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. It’s also a great way to feed a crowd, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or a dinner party.

In terms of health benefits, this recipe is a no-brainer. Chicken is lean protein, and when you roast it whole, you’re not adding any extra fats or oils. Plus, the herbs and spices used in this recipe have anti-inflammatory properties that will do wonders for your immune system.

I’ve made this recipe so many times that I can do it in my sleep. But even after all these years, I still get excited every time I put the chicken in the oven and smell that delicious aroma wafting through the house.

Oven Roasted Whole Chicken

Oven Roasted Whole Chicken

4.9 from 1329 votes

A classic oven roasted whole chicken recipe. Juicy and flavorful, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hr 15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 30 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 Vegetables

2 medium carrots
2 stalks celery
1 medium onion
2 cloves garlic

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2Place a rack in the lower third of the oven.
3Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, which helps achieve crispy skin.
4Rinse the chicken inside and out, then pat dry again.
5Liberally season the chicken inside and out with salt and black pepper, making sure to get salt and pepper on the legs and under the wings.
6Rub the chicken all over with olive oil.
7Stuff the chicken cavity with the lemon, garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
8Tuck the wing tips under the chicken to prevent burning.
9Tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
10Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan.
11Cut the carrots, celery, and onion into large chunks.
12Add them to the roasting pan around the chicken.
13Add the garlic cloves to the pan.
14Place the chicken in the preheated oven.
15Roast for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
16Continue roasting for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the juices run clear when the thickest part of the thigh is cut and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
17Remove the chicken from the oven.
18Let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.
19This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring a juicy and flavorful meal.
20Serve the roasted chicken with the roasted vegetables from the pan, and spoon the pan juices over the top.
21Enjoy with your favorite side dishes.

🔧Equipment

Rack
Roasting pan
Basting brush
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 125mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 2g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

Tips: Be sure to pat the chicken dry to achieve crispy skin. You can add other herbs such as sage or oregano for added flavor.

Watch Video Of How Oven Roasted Whole Chicken Works

This oven roasted whole chicken recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need something quick and easy for dinner. The best part?

It’s incredibly versatile – serve it on its own or with some roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. And if you’re feeling fancy, try using different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Oven Roasted 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’s around 3-4 pounds. You can use either organic or non-organic chicken, but make sure it’s fresh and not frozen.

Q: Can I use different herbs and spices in this recipe?

While the original recipe calls for thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, you can experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.

Q: How long does it take to cook a whole chicken in the oven?

The cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken and your oven’s temperature. Generally speaking, you’ll want to cook it at 425°F (220°C) for around 45-60 minutes.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken ahead of time by seasoning it with salt and pepper and letting it sit at room temperature for up to 2 hours before roasting.

Q: How do I store leftover chicken?

After cooking your chicken, let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it. You can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

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