I think there are some dishes that just seem intimadating. When I was first learning how to cook there were certain recipes that I didn’t even want to try. Oven roasted chicken was certainly one of those dishes. There is just something about cooking an entire chicken that seems insurmountable to a new cook. I’m here to tell you that if I, as a young new cook, was able to learn how to roast a chicken, you can too. In fact, I think this is a recipe that you will surprisingly easy to make. Once you do it once and taste how moist and delicious this chicken comes out, this will become a regular in your meal rotation.
How to Roast a Chicken
It may seem like quite a few steps, but really, roasting a whole chicken is super easy! Check out the recipe card below for exact measurements, but here’s what you need to do:
How to Prepare a Chicken for Roasting
The key when working with poultry is to make sure to keep everything clean to avoid spreading bacteria. Some tips to help with that:
Use a clean, plastic cutting board to prepare the chicken for roasting.Do not rinse the chicken, as this increases the risk of spreading bacteria in your kitchen.
According to the FDA, if you do give it a quick rinse, pat the chicken dry with paper towels and use hot, soapy water to clean your sink and countertops. After you have discarded the giblets and your chicken has been patted dry:
Roast Chicken Seasonings
Basically, anything goes when it comes to seasoning your roast chicken. There are so many options that can make your chicken taste just the way you want it. If you’re not sure where to start, try these delicious herbs and spices. You can always leave one out if it’s not your favorite.
Kosher salt and pepperOnion powderGarlic powderFresh or dried thymeLemon Garlic clovesOnions
Preventing Over-browning
If your chicken is looking a little crisp during cooking, cover the whole thing with foil partway during the roasting process. Tying the chicken legs and tucking the wings will help alleviate any over-browning on the tips of the wings and drumsticks.
How Long to Roast a Chicken
Depending on your oven, it generally takes about 1 1/2 hours to cook a nicely sized chicken. You can set the timer for under an hour and then watch it for the next several minutes. Using an instant read thermometer at the end is the best way to ensure that you chicken is fully cooked without becoming overdone!
How You Know Your Chicken is Done
The key to making a perfectly moist and juicy roast chicken is not overcooking. To ensure you get it just right, use a meat thermometer to test the internal temperature. It should read 165 degrees. You can also make a small cut between the thigh and the breast. If the juices run clear and there’s no pink, your chicken is done!
Why Meat Should Rest After Roasting
After removing the chicken from the oven, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This gives the juices time to redistribute throughout the meat, making the whole thing moist and super tender. If you start slicing right out of the oven the juices will rush out leaving your chicken dry. It’s worth the extra time!
Storing Leftovers
Leftover roast chicken is perfect for so many recipes! I love making chicken salad with mine or using it in soups or casseroles. To store leftovers, cut the chicken off the bone and into convenient slices, leaving the skin on as much as possible. Then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
