This classic roasted chicken recipe delivers tender, juicy meat with perfectly crispy skin. Made with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, it’s an evergreen dish ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions.
1.4 Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 to 6 servings
1.5 Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (4 to 5 lb / 1.8 to 2.3 kg)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 small onion, quartered
1.6 Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken all over with olive oil or melted butter.
- Season evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried herbs.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, garlic cloves, and onion.
- Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet.
- Roast uncovered for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
1.7 What to Serve With
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice
- Fresh green salad
- Garlic bread
1.8 Pro Tips
- Always dry the chicken well to achieve crispier skin.
- Letting the chicken rest after roasting helps retain juices.
- Use a meat thermometer for accurate doneness.
1.9 Nutrition Information (Approximate)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 38 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fats: 28 g
FAQ – Roasted Chicken Recipe
1. How do I know when roasted chicken is fully cooked?
The safest and most accurate way is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
2. How do I get crispy skin on roasted chicken?
Make sure the chicken is completely dry before seasoning, use enough fat (olive oil or butter), and roast it uncovered at a sufficiently high temperature. Dry skin and proper heat are key to crispiness.
3. Can I prepare roasted chicken ahead of time?
Yes. You can season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated, uncovered or loosely covered. This can even improve flavor and help dry the skin for better roasting.
4. Should I cover the chicken while roasting?
No. Roasting uncovered allows the skin to brown and crisp properly. Covering the chicken will trap steam and result in softer skin.
5. How long should roasted chicken rest before carving?
Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
6. Can I use this recipe for different chicken sizes?
Yes. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken. Always rely on internal temperature rather than time alone to ensure proper doneness.
Conclusion
This classic roasted chicken recipe is a timeless staple that combines simplicity, flavor, and reliability. With minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques, it delivers juicy meat and beautifully crisp skin every time. Whether served for a casual family dinner or a special occasion, this roasted chicken is an evergreen recipe that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire.