This classic roast chicken recipe results in tender and juicy meat with crispy skin. It's a simple yet elegant dish that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The secret to the perfect roast chicken is in the seasoning and cooking method, resulting in a dish that is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves of garlic, peeled
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Remove giblets from the chicken cavity and pat dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken all over with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon halves, onion quarters, and garlic cloves.
- Tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
- Place the chicken breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Interesting Facts
Roasting a whole chicken allows for even cooking and results in a juicy and flavorful meat.
Using a rack in the roasting pan helps the chicken cook more evenly and prevents it from sitting in its own juices.