Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken on a cutting board and remove any excess fat or giblets from the cavity.
Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, paprika, dried thyme, and garlic powder. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken, rubbing it into the skin.
Step 3: Trussing the Chicken (Optional)
Trussing the chicken helps it cook more evenly and maintain its shape. Using kitchen twine, tie the legs together and tuck the wings underneath the chicken.
Step 4: Roasting the Chicken
Place the chicken on a roasting rack in a baking dish, breast-side up. Transfer it to the preheated oven and roast for about 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a juicy chicken. Carve the chicken into portions and serve it with your favorite sides.
Tips for Extra Crispy Skin:
- For an even crispier skin, you can let the chicken air dry in the refrigerator, uncovered, for a few hours or overnight before roasting.
- Using a roasting rack allows the heat to circulate around the chicken, ensuring that the skin gets crispy all over.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mixture.
Now that you have a step-by-step guide, making crispy roasted chicken at home should be a breeze. Impress your family and friends with this delicious and satisfying dish. Happy cooking!