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Perfectly Roasted Whole Chickens for a Cozy Dinner

This dish not only fills the kitchen with inviting aromas but also brings families together around the dinner table. The succulent meat, crispy skin, and rich flavors make it an ideal choice for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time1 hour 30 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • Roasting Rack
  • Baking Pan
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 whole Whole Chicken (about 4-5 lbs) Look for a plump chicken with good fat under the skin for moisture.
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil for coating the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons Salt Kosher or sea salt recommended for even distribution.
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper Freshly ground black pepper for flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Contributes mild sweetness and savory depth.
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Herbs (thyme or rosemary) Chopped finely for even distribution.
  • 1 whole Lemon Cut in half and stuffed in the chicken for moisture.

Vegetables for roasting

  • 2 cups Carrots Cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
  • 2 cups Potatoes Cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
  • 1 cup Onions Cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Prepare the chicken by removing any giblets from the cavity and patting it dry with paper towels.
  • In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped fresh herbs to create a paste.
  • Rub the olive oil mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
  • Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the halved lemon.
  • Place the chicken breast side up on a roasting rack set in a baking pan.
  • Arrange chopped vegetables around the chicken and drizzle with olive oil, sprinkling with salt and pepper.
  • Roast the chicken for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Broil the chicken for the last 5 minutes for extra crispiness, watching closely to avoid burning.
  • Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
  • Carve the chicken and serve with roasted vegetables.
  • Enjoy your meal with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

For variations, consider adding spices like paprika or using different citrus fruits. Experiment with herbs for unique flavors.