Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley)
- Optional: Vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, and onions) for roasting
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Chicken:
– Remove the chicken from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
– Rub the olive oil or melted butter all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible.
– Generously season the chicken inside and out with salt and pepper. - Stuff the Chicken:
– Place the lemon halves, smashed garlic, and fresh herbs inside the cavity of the chicken. - Optional – Prepare Vegetables:
– If using, chop your vegetables and place them in a roasting pan. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. - Roast the Chicken:
– Place the chicken breast side up on a rack in the roasting pan (or directly on top of the vegetables).
– Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. - Rest and Serve:
– Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This helps keep the meat juicy.
– Serve with the roasted vegetables and enjoy!
Tips:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight with herbs and spices.
- You can also add spices like paprika, cumin, or garlic powder for a different flavor profile.
- Leftover chicken can be used in salads, sandwiches, or soups.
This roast chicken recipe is not only easy to prepare but also yields delicious results, making it a favorite for family dinners or special occasions!