Meta Description: Learn how to make a delicious oven roasted chicken with crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. This easy recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, halved
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon rosemary (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position the oven rack in the middle of the oven.
2- Prepare the Chicken:
Remove the giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken helps to achieve crispy skin.
3- Season the Chicken:
Rub the olive oil all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Rub this spice mixture all over the chicken, including inside the cavity. Stuff the cavity with the minced garlic and lemon halves.
4- Roast the Chicken:
Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Roast the chicken for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
5- Rest the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
6- Serve:
Carve the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Oven Roasted Chicken:
Crispy Skin: Patting the chicken dry and roasting it at a high temperature helps achieve a crispy, golden skin.
Flavor Boost: You can add vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes around the chicken to roast alongside it for a full meal.
Basting Optional: Basting the chicken with its own juices every 20 minutes can add extra moisture, but it’s not necessary for this recipe.