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#### Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
1. **Pat the chicken dry** with paper towels. Removing excess moisture will help the skin crisp up during roasting.
2. **Season the chicken**: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub it all over, making sure to cover the entire bird. Then, sprinkle the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed on both the outside and inside of the chicken.
3. **Stuff the cavity**: Place the lemon halves, garlic cloves, and sprigs of rosemary or thyme into the cavity of the chicken. The lemon will help keep the meat moist and infuse a fresh citrus flavor. The garlic and herbs will also add aromatic depth to the chicken.
4. **Truss the chicken**: Optional but recommended, use kitchen twine to tie the legs together and tuck the wings under the bird. This helps the chicken cook evenly and results in a beautiful presentation when serving.
#### Step 3: Roast the Chicken
1. **Place the chicken in the oven**: Set the chicken breast-side up on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan. If you don’t have a roasting rack, you can also place the chicken directly on a bed of roughly chopped onions and vegetables to keep the bird elevated.
2. **Roast the chicken** for about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken. A 4-5 pound chicken usually takes around 75 minutes to cook fully. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach **165°F (75°C)** when measured at the thickest part of the thigh (not touching the bone).
3. **Check the chicken**: If the skin is browning too quickly, you can tent the chicken with foil to prevent over-browning while it finishes cooking. The goal is crispy, golden skin with a perfectly cooked interior.
#### Step 4: Rest and Carve
1. **Let the chicken rest**: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
2. **Carve the chicken**: Use a sharp knife to carve the chicken, starting with the legs and thighs and then moving on to the breast. Be sure to remove the lemon, garlic, and herbs from the cavity before serving.
### Tips for Perfect Oven Roasted Chicken
– **Use a meat thermometer**: A meat thermometer is your best friend when roasting a whole chicken. It ensures the meat is cooked through without being overcooked, keeping the chicken juicy.
– **Season under the skin**: For an extra punch of flavor, gently separate the skin from the meat of the chicken and rub some of the seasoning directly onto the meat underneath.
– **Baste the chicken**: If you want extra flavor and moisture, you can baste the chicken once or twice with its own drippings during the roasting process. Just use a spoon to pour the juices over the chicken.
– **Add vegetables to the pan**: Place potatoes, carrots, onions, or other root vegetables in the roasting pan around the chicken. They’ll cook in the drippings, adding flavor and making for a complete one-pan meal.
– **Don’t overcrowd the oven**: When roasting a whole chicken, make sure there’s enough space around the bird in the oven for air circulation. This helps ensure an even roast and crispy skin.
### How to Serve Oven Roasted Chicken
Oven roasted chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs well with almost any side dish. Here are some delicious options to serve with your roasted chicken:
– **Roasted Vegetables**: Roasted potatoes, carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts make a perfect accompaniment. You can roast them in the same pan as the chicken for added flavor.
– **Mashed Potatoes**: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken.
– **Gravy**: If you have drippings left in the roasting pan, use them to make a rich gravy. Simply whisk in some flour and broth to thicken the drippings, and serve it over the chicken and sides.
– **Salads**: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
### Leftovers: What to Do with Extra Chicken
If you have leftovers after your delicious roast, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to use them!
– **Chicken Soup**: Use the leftover chicken to make a hearty soup or chicken noodle soup. Add some veggies, broth, and noodles, and you’ve got a comforting meal.
– **Chicken Salad**: Shred the leftover chicken and mix it with mayo, mustard, and your favorite veggies to make a flavorful chicken salad for sandwiches or wraps.
– **Chicken Tacos**: Heat up the leftover chicken and use it as a filling for tacos, adding fresh toppings like salsa, guacamole, and cilantro.
### Conclusion: A Perfectly Roasted Chicken Every Time
Oven roasted chicken is one of those timeless dishes that’s always a hit. With its crispy skin, juicy meat, and delicious aroma, it’s a meal that brings comfort and satisfaction to any table. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this easy recipe will ensure your chicken turns out perfectly every time.
Give this classic **Oven Roasted Chicken** recipe a try and enjoy the simple pleasures of a flavorful, home-cooked meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
