Whole Roasted Chicken
There’s something wonderfully comforting about roasting a whole chicken—it fills the kitchen with warmth and the most inviting aroma. This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s both simple and packed with flavor. The combination of lemon, butter, and rosemary gives the chicken a fresh and juicy taste, while slow roasting ensures tender meat with a crispy golden skin.
I love how effortless this dish is. With just a little preparation, the oven does all the work, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The potatoes soak up all the delicious juices, and with a fresh salad on the side, you have a complete and satisfying meal.
If you have the time, let the seasoned chicken rest before roasting—it really makes a difference. And don’t forget to take the lid off toward the end for that perfect golden finish!
Whole Roasted Chicken
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 lemon
- Butter
- Rosemary
- Salt, pepper
- Oil
- Potatoes
- Thyme
Place the chicken in a lidded baking dish. Cut the lemon into quarters and stuff it inside the chicken. Slice a few pieces of cold butter, slide a finger under the skin at the front of the breast, and push the butter underneath.
Season generously with spices and drizzle with good-quality oil, such as rosemary with salt and pepper.
Let it rest for an hour if possible. Roast at 170°C (340°F) for about an hour, depending on the size.
The cooking time is approximately the weight in kilos × 55 minutes. For example, a 1.3 kg chicken: 1.3 × 55 = 72 minutes.
Remove the lid for the last 20 minutes. Add chopped potatoes to the dish, season with salt, thyme, and oil. Increase the temperature to 200°C (390°F).
Serve with a salad or other side dishes.
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These simple tricks will take your chicken from basic to absolutely irresistible! 😍🔥
1. Brine for Maximum Juiciness 💦
Soaking your chicken in a simple saltwater brine for a few hours (or overnight) makes it incredibly juicy and flavorful. Add garlic, herbs, or a splash of lemon juice for extra depth.
2. Spice It Up with a Dry Rub 🌶️
Skip the basic salt and pepper! A homemade dry rub with smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and a touch of brown sugar adds amazing flavor and a beautiful crust when cooking.
3. Try a Buttermilk Marinade 🥛
Soaking chicken in buttermilk before frying or roasting tenderizes the meat and adds a subtle tang. For even more flavor, mix in garlic, hot sauce, or herbs.
4. Cook Low and Slow for Tender Perfection ⏳
For fall-off-the-bone tenderness, try slow cooking or sous vide. Low temperatures (around 150°F/65°C) for a longer time make the chicken incredibly tender without drying it out.
5. Finish with a Flavorful Glaze 🍯
For the perfect finishing touch, brush your chicken with a glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. Try honey mustard, balsamic reduction, or a spicy-sweet gochujang glaze for a unique twist.
