How To Roast A Whole Chicken

Roasting a whole chicken is one of the most comforting and rewarding meals you can prepare. Not only does it fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas, but it also delivers a succulent centerpiece for your family dinner or special gathering. Imagine the crispy skin, juicy meat, and perfectly roasted vegetables that accompany it. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can master the art of roasting a whole chicken that will leave everyone at the table wishing for seconds!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This roasted chicken recipe is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to shine in the kitchen. You’ll love how the savory spices and fresh vegetables complement each other, creating a harmonious dish full of flavor. The garlic and onion powder add depth, while Italian herbs bring a touch of zest. Plus, you can easily customize it according to your taste preferences. And let’s not forget the crispy skin—it’s truly the crowning glory of this dish!

Ingredient Notes

• 1 whole chicken: Choose a fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• 1.5 tsp salt: This will enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
• 1 tsp pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a lovely bite.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: A must for that aromatic flavor.
• 1 tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic beautifully.
• 1 tsp Italian herbs: A blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.
• 3 medium carrots, cut into large chunks: For sweetness and color.
• 1 medium yellow onion, cut into quarters: Adds flavor and moisture.
• 7 medium Yukon gold potatoes, halved: Perfectly roasted, these potatoes soak up all the delicious juices.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps to crisp the skin and roast the veggies.
• 2 tbsp poultry seasoning: Use your favorite blend for extra flavor.
• 1 medium lemon: Adds brightness; squeeze it over the chicken before roasting.
• 1 tbsp butter: For broiling at the end to achieve that golden, crispy skin.
• 1 tsp cilantro, fresh chopped: For garnishing, adding a fresh touch.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Roasting pan: A sturdy pan to hold the chicken and veggies.
• Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.
• Basting brush: Perfect for applying butter before broiling.
• Cutting board: For prepping your vegetables and chicken.
• Sharp knife: Essential for cutting the chicken and veggies.

How To Roast A Whole Chicken: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help crisp the skin of the chicken, ensuring a delightful crunch.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Remove the chicken from its packaging, and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin. Season the inside of the chicken with 1 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of pepper.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix the remaining salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring you get into the crevices. Drizzle 1 tbsp of olive oil over the chicken and use your hands to coat it evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

In your roasting pan, toss the carrots, onion quarters, and halved Yukon gold potatoes with the remaining olive oil and poultry seasoning. Spread them out evenly on the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Place the Chicken on the Vegetables

Carefully place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables in the roasting pan. This arrangement allows the veggies to absorb the chicken juices as they roast.

Step 6: Add Lemon

Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the chicken. You can also place the lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken for extra flavor.

Step 7: Roast the Chicken

Transfer the roasting pan to the oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. You want the internal temperature of the chicken to reach 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through for added moisture.

Step 8: Broil for Crispy Skin

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the pan from the oven. Dot the chicken skin with 1 tbsp of butter, then return it to the oven on the broil setting. Broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Step 9: Let it Rest

Once broiled to perfection, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy chicken.

Step 10: Serve

Carve the chicken and serve it alongside the roasted vegetables. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Potatoes: Feel free to use sweet potatoes or any root vegetables you prefer.
• Butter: Use olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Cilantro: Use parsley or chives if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
• Poultry seasoning: A homemade blend of thyme, sage, and rosemary works beautifully.

Mistakes That Ruin How To Roast A Whole Chicken

• Not patting the chicken dry: This can lead to soggy skin instead of crispy perfection.
• Overcrowding the pan: Make sure the vegetables are spread out; otherwise, they won’t roast properly.
• Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the chicken too soon will cause the juices to run out, resulting in dryness.
• Not using a meat thermometer: This is crucial for ensuring your chicken is cooked through but not overdone.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Leftover roasted chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. To store, place it in an airtight container. If you have more leftovers than you can eat, consider freezing the meat. Shred or slice the chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Use leftover chicken in salads, sandwiches, or soups for quick meals!

Reader Q&A

Can I roast a frozen chicken?

It’s recommended to thaw the chicken completely before roasting for even cooking. A frozen chicken can take significantly longer to cook and may not reach the safe temperature in the center.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is done. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, and it should read 165°F (74°C).

Can I use other types of herbs?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs or spices. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme can add wonderful flavors as well.

What can I serve with roasted chicken?

Roasted chicken pairs well with a variety of sides such as green salads, steamed vegetables, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed learning how to roast a whole chicken, be sure to bookmark this recipe and share it with your friends and family! Cooking is always more fun when you share your delicious creations with others.

Roasting a whole chicken is not only a delicious meal but an experience that brings people together. Whether it’s for a Sunday family dinner or a casual weeknight meal, mastering the art of roasting a chicken will elevate your cooking game and impress your guests. So gather your ingredients and get ready for a delightful culinary adventure!

How To Roast A Whole Chicken

This roasted chicken is a showstopper! Crispy skin, juicy meat, and roasted veggies make for an unforgettable meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 whole chicken fresh, high-quality
• 1.5 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper freshly cracked black
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp Italian herbs blend of dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme
• 3 medium carrots cut into large chunks
• 1 medium yellow onion cut into quarters
• 7 medium Yukon gold potatoes halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp poultry seasoning your favorite blend
• 1 medium lemon squeeze over the chicken before roasting
• 1 tbsp butter for broiling at the end
• 1 tsp cilantro fresh chopped, for garnishing

Equipment

• Roasting pan
• Meat thermometer
• Basting brush
• Cutting Board
• Sharp Knife

Method

 

1. Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help crisp the skin of the chicken, ensuring a delightful crunch.
2. Remove the chicken from its packaging, and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the inside of the chicken with 1 tsp of salt and 1/2 tsp of pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix the remaining salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring you get into the crevices. Drizzle 1 tbsp of olive oil over the chicken and use your hands to coat it evenly.
4. In your roasting pan, toss the carrots, onion quarters, and halved Yukon gold potatoes with the remaining olive oil and poultry seasoning. Spread them out evenly on the bottom of the pan.
5. Carefully place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables in the roasting pan. This arrangement allows the veggies to absorb the chicken juices as they roast.
6. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the chicken. You can also place the lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken for extra flavor.
7. Transfer the roasting pan to the oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through for added moisture.
8. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the pan from the oven. Dot the chicken skin with 1 tbsp of butter, then return it to the oven on the broil setting. Broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
9. Once broiled to perfection, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy chicken.
10. Carve the chicken and serve it alongside the roasted vegetables. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

• Pat the chicken dry to ensure crispy skin.
• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
• Let the chicken rest before carving to retain juices.