Here it is, the best buttermilk chicken recipe ever! Marinated in buttermilk, garlic, and herbs, this truly is the best-roasted chicken I’ve had.  Buttermilk is often paired with chicken in recipes, as it has the ability to flavor and tenderize chicken meat, making it extra delicious. I use buttermilk in my Nashville Hot Chicken, Buttermilk Chicken Tenders, and Popeye’s Chicken for exactly that reason, and the same method works with a whole roasted chicken as well. I think you’ll be making this roasted whole chicken recipe often. Serve it for dinner, or use it to make chicken sandwiches or prepped meals for the week. A whole chicken is such a versatile ingredient. Do you need an impressive chicken recipe to serve guests? Try my easy Stuffed Cornish Hens, or make Roasted Sumac Chicken!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Key Ingredients

Complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Chicken: Choose a whole chicken that’s between 3.5-4.5 pounds for this recipe. Make sure that it’s thawed and any internal things have been removed before you start.Buttermilk: This is a must, of course, to make buttermilk roast chicken. Seasonings: Salt, pepper, chopped fresh rosemary, and minced garlic add savory flavor to the marinated chicken. 

How to Make Buttermilk Roast Chicken

Recipe Tips

Truss the Chicken: This is optional, but trussing the chicken legs will ensure even cooking. Use kitchen twine to wrap the legs and wings, tying them close to the body of the chicken. Alternately, you can just criss-cross the chicken’s legs.Add More Seasoning: Experiment with your favorite herbs and spices in this buttermilk chicken recipe. Fresh thyme and parsley would be nice, or a bit of cajun or Italian seasoning.When Plating: This chicken is delicious with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and some flaky salt added right before serving. Learn How to Carve a Chicken: Carving a whole roast chicken is easier than you might think! Get full instructions here. 

How to Make a Pan Gravy

I made a delicious gravy with the drippings from this Buttermilk Roast Chicken! Here’s How:  In a saucepan, create a roux by mixing together 2 tablespoons butter, ¼ cup flour, and 1 ½ – 2 cups of strained pan drippings. Heat and whisk until well mixed and thickened. Add water or broth to get a thinner consistency if desired. It’s easy! 

What to Serve with Buttermilk Roast Chicken

Any roast chicken dinner, including this one, Slow Cooker Whole Chicken, Easy Roast Chicken, Spatchcock Chicken, or Roasted Cornish Hens, just needs a few delicious side dishes to turn it into a satisfying meal.  A Potato Side Dish is always delicious with roast chicken. Serve your Buttermilk Roast Chicken with Crockpot Mashed Potatoes, Instant Pot Red Potatoes, or Air Fryer Baked Potatoes.  Add a Veggie like these Air Fryer Vegetables, or make Roasted Broccolini.  Serve a Casserole to make your meal even more special. Broccoli Casserole, Creamy Green Bean Casserole, or my Buttery Herb Stuffing would be perfect.  You are going to be amazed at how tender and flavorful Buttermilk roast chicken is! Don’t forget to Pin the recipe for later. © Little Sunny Kitchen

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