Discover How to Make the Perfect Roasted Chicken
Welcome to our step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect roasted chicken at home. If you’ve ever wanted to impress your family and friends with a delicious, flavorful main dish, this is the recipe for you!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 lemon, cut into halves
Instructions
This guide will walk you through the simple steps to roast your chicken to perfection.
Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preheating ensures that your chicken cooks evenly from the start.
Prepare the Chicken
- Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil to help the seasoning adhere and promote golden browning.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper over the entire surface of the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin if possible.
- Insert the rosemary sprigs inside the cavity of the chicken, along with the halved lemon. This will infuse the chicken with wonderful flavors as it cooks.
Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting rack set inside the roasting pan. This helps circulate heat around the chicken, promoting even cooking.
Roast the chicken in the preheated oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh–usually about an hour and 20 minutes, depending on the size of your bird. For a more golden and crispy skin, you can increase the heat to 450°F (232°C) for the last 10 minutes.
Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and flavorful roast.
Tips for the Perfect Roast
- For even browning, turn the pan halfway through the cooking time.
- Don’t forget to check the temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through.
- You can make extra virgin olive oil and herb sauce to serve alongside for added flavor.
By following these simple steps, you’ll be serving up a delicious, perfectly roasted chicken that your loved ones will adore. Enjoy cooking, and happy roasting!