roasted chicken whole recipe

The Best roasted chicken whole recipe

I’ve been making roasted chicken whole recipe for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorites. It’s a classic dish that never goes out of style, and I love how it’s easy to make and always turns out delicious.

The combination of the crispy skin and juicy meat is just perfect. My kids love helping me prepare the chicken and veggies, and they always get excited when they see the finished dish.

We often have it for special occasions like holidays and birthdays, but it’s also a great option for a weeknight dinner. I’ve tried different seasonings and herbs over the years, but the simple salt, pepper, and herbs de provence is still our favorite way to make it.

The aroma that fills the kitchen while it’s roasting is just amazing. I’ve even been known to make it on a Sunday afternoon just to have leftovers for the week ahead.

The best part is that it’s a great way to use up any leftover veggies we have in the fridge. We love serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or steamed broccoli.

My husband always asks me to make sure there’s enough chicken left over for sandwiches the next day. It’s a real crowd-pleaser, and I’m so glad I can share this recipe with you all.

Whole Roasted Chicken

4.6 from 562 votes

A classic whole roasted chicken recipe, crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, with a simple lemon and herb seasoning. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

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

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2Place chicken in a roasting pan.
3Remove giblets and pat dry with paper towels.
4Rub chicken with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
5Cut one lemon in half and place inside the chicken cavity.
6Slice the remaining lemon and place slices on top of the chicken.
7Cut the head of garlic in half crosswise and place inside the cavity with the lemon.
8Add thyme and rosemary to the cavity.
9Tie the chicken legs together with kitchen twine.
10Place the chicken breast side up in the roasting pan.
11Roast the chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
12After 1 hour, reduce the heat to 350°F (180°C).
13The chicken is done when the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh.
14If the chicken begins to brown too quickly, cover loosely with aluminum foil.
15Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
16This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
17Carve the chicken and serve with the pan juices.

🔧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: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra crispy skin, place the chicken on a wire rack in the roasting pan. Baste the chicken every 30 minutes with the pan juices for added flavor.

Watch Video Of How Whole Roasted Chicken Works

This roasted chicken whole recipe is a staple in our household because it’s easy to make and always turns out delicious. We love serving it with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies on the side.

If you’re looking for storage ideas, you can keep leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months. When reheating, make sure to check that the chicken has reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) before serving.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Whole Roasted Chicken

Q: Can I use different types of herbs instead of herbs de provence?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with different herbs to find your favorite flavor combination. Some options include thyme, rosemary, parsley, or even a mix of Italian seasoning.

Q: How do I ensure my chicken is cooked through?

Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh. It should read at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Sure! You can prep the chicken and veggies ahead of time and store them in separate containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roast them.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh lemons? Can I use bottled lemon juice instead?

You can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute in a pinch, but keep in mind that it might not have the same bright flavor as freshly squeezed lemon juice.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This recipe should be okay for most people with common dietary restrictions like gluten-free or dairy-free diets; however, if you’re cooking for someone with specific allergies or intolerances, be sure to check with them first before serving.

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