Foolproof Roast Chicken
A simple and efficient recipe for perfectly roasted chicken, infused with flavors from fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon, ready in just 90 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil can substitute with melted butter for richer flavor
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 whole lemon, quartered for brightness and moisture
Optional Vegetables
- as desired carrots, potatoes, and onions for a hearty side while the chicken roasts
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin with a clean and dry chicken. Pat the chicken with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps nicely during roasting.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin for maximum flavor.
Stuffing
- Insert the smashed garlic and lemon quarters into the cavity of the chicken.
Vegetable Preparation
- If using, surround the chicken with chopped carrots, potatoes, and onions in your roasting pan. Drizzle the veggies with a little olive oil and season them.
Roasting
- Place the chicken in the preheated oven and roast it for about 75 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
- Halfway through roasting, baste the chicken with its juices for extra moisture and flavor.
Resting
- Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before serving.
Notes
To maintain flavor while enhancing nutritional benefits, consider using skinless chicken for lower fat, substituting olive oil for avocado oil, and incorporating additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.