Whole Roast Chicken Recipe:
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 pounds)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 lemon, halved
– 1 head of garlic, halved crosswise
– Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or sage) for stuffing the cavity (optional)
– Vegetables (carrots, onions, potatoes) for roasting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Remove the giblets and neck from the cavity of the chicken (if included), and rinse the chicken inside and out with cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to create a paste.
4. Gently separate the skin from the breast and thighs of the chicken. Carefully spread about two-thirds of the butter mixture under the skin, distributing it as evenly as possible.
5. Rub the remaining butter mixture all over the outside of the chicken, ensuring it is well coated.
6. If desired, stuff the cavity with halved lemons, garlic, and fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for added flavor.
7. Tie the chicken legs together with kitchen twine to help it cook evenly.
8. Place the chicken on a roasting pan or a large oven-safe skillet.
9. If using vegetables for roasting, arrange them around the chicken in the pan.
10. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken.
11. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven, and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving.
12. Carve the chicken and serve it with the roasted vegetables (if using) and your favorite side dishes.
Enjoy your delicious and flavorful whole roast chicken!
