What You’ll Need
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 pounds)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
- 1 lemon, halved
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the chicken thoroughly, inside and out, under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels and place it on a baking rack set inside a roasting pan.
Step 2: Seasoning the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Mix well to create a flavorful seasoning blend. Rub the entire chicken, including the cavity, with olive oil. Sprinkle the seasoning blend evenly over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Step 3: Stuffing and Trussing the Chicken
Take the halved lemon and squeeze the juice over the chicken, then place the lemon halves inside the cavity. Truss the chicken by tying the legs together with kitchen twine. This will help the chicken cook more evenly while retaining its shape.
Step 4: Baking the Chicken
Place the roasting pan with the seasoned chicken in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Basting the chicken with its juices every 20 minutes will help keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once fully cooked, remove the roasted chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes on a cutting board. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring the chicken remains juicy when carved. Slice the chicken and serve it alongside your favorite sides.
By following these simple steps, you can season and bake the perfect roasted chicken. Remember to let your creativity shine by adding additional herbs or spices to suit your taste. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a special occasion, a perfectly roasted chicken is a delightful dish that will leave everyone satisfied.