Are you ready to learn the secrets behind the best roast chicken recipe? Look no further! This method will give you perfectly cooked and flavorful chicken on a bed of roasted vegetables. It’s simple enough for any level of cook, yet fancy enough to impress your guests. Plus, it’s a complete meal, making it both convenient and budget-friendly. So, let’s dive in and discover how to roast a chicken like a pro!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple: No complicated techniques or special equipment needed. Even beginner cooks can master this recipe with ease.
- Meal-in-one: The chicken is cooked alongside potatoes, carrots, and onions, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal.
- Budget-friendly: This oven-roasted chicken is not only healthy and delicious, but it’s also an affordable option for feeding a crowd. Don’t forget to use the leftover bones to make homemade chicken stock!
How to Roast a Chicken
Prep Chicken
Start by removing the chicken from its packaging and taking out the neck and giblets from the cavity. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Cover in Herb Butter
Combine butter, lemon zest, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Gently loosen the skin on top of the chicken breasts and spread some of the herb butter underneath. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper. Soften the remaining herb butter in the microwave and spread it all over the chicken. Place halved lemons inside the chicken’s cavity.
Add Chopped Vegetables
Place chopped vegetables in a 9×13 baking dish. Drizzle olive oil over the veggies and season with salt and pepper.
Roast
Now, place the chicken on top of the vegetables and season it all over with salt and pepper. Roast the chicken in the oven uncovered at 450°F for 10-15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue cooking for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The skin should be golden brown, and the juices should be sizzling and clear.
Rest
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and loosely cover it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to settle. This step is crucial for juicy and tender meat.
Serve
Carve the chicken and serve it with the roasted vegetables. Don’t forget to save the pan drippings to make a flavorful chicken gravy! This whole roasted chicken pairs perfectly with homemade rolls.
Pro Tips
- Thaw the Chicken: Make sure to completely thaw the chicken before cooking it. If it’s frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.
- Don’t Wash the Chicken: Washing the chicken can lead to contamination in your sink. The high oven temperature will kill any bacteria, so simply pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Calculate How Long to Cook: After reducing the temperature, bake the chicken for approximately 20 minutes per pound. For example, a 4-pound chicken should cook for about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Use a Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remember, the meat will continue to cook as it rests under the foil.
- Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after baking allows the juices to reabsorb, resulting in moist and tender meat.
- Don’t Baste the Chicken: Basting is unnecessary and can actually dry out the chicken. Keep the oven closed to maintain a crispy skin and tender meat.
How to Carve a Chicken
Remove Chicken Legs
Pull one leg slightly away from the body and slice through the leg meat and skin. Then, apply a little more force to pull the leg away until you hear the crack of the hip joint. Once the hip bone pops up, place your knife between the hip bone and the rest of the body, cutting to remove it. Repeat these steps with the other leg.
Separate Drumsticks and Thighs
Separate the drumsticks and thighs by cutting through the joint that separates them. Repeat this process with the other leg.
Carve Chicken Breast
To carve the chicken breast, slice along one side of the breastbone and remove one side of the breast meat. Place your knife along the natural line that separates the two breasts and cut from front to back while pulling the breast meat away from the bone. Slice the breast meat into thin portions.
Make Chicken Broth
If desired, you can use the leftover carcass to make homemade chicken broth.
Recipe Variations
- Slow Cooker: While the slow cooker method is an option, the oven-roasted version provides better results, especially in terms of crispy skin. If you choose to use a slow cooker, follow the same preparation steps and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- Air Fryer Whole Chicken
Try this mouthwatering roast chicken recipe and experience the joy of a perfectly cooked, flavorful, and tender chicken paired with delicious roasted vegetables. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to impress your loved ones with this delectable meal. For more delightful recipes, check out Ekilove. Enjoy!
