This juicy roasted chicken recipe is a classic American delight that is sure to please your family and friends. The tender and flavorful meat pairs perfectly with the crispy golden skin. With just a few simple ingredients and some time in the oven, you'll have a delicious, satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Rub the butter mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity.
- Place the onion, garlic cloves, lemon halves, rosemary, and thyme inside the cavity of the chicken.
- Tie the legs together with kitchen twine for even cooking.
- Place the chicken on a rack in a roasting pan, breast-side up.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
- Serve the juicy roasted chicken with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Roasting the chicken at a high temperature initially helps to crisp up the skin, while lowering the temperature later ensures a juicy and tender interior.
Using softened butter mixed with seasonings helps to keep the chicken moist and adds flavor.
Adding aromatics like onion, garlic, lemon, rosemary, and thyme to the chicken's cavity infuses the meat with delicious flavors as it roasts.
Letting the chicken rest before carving allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful meat.