Description
This Super Easy Roast Chicken recipe is a classic, foolproof way to prepare a tender and juicy whole chicken with minimal ingredients. The chicken is simply seasoned with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then roasted to perfection in the oven for a crispy, golden skin and flavorful interior. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 (4 to 5-pound) whole chicken (packet of giblets removed)
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position a baking rack in the lower third of the oven. Bring the chicken to room temperature to ensure even cooking. Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels to help achieve crispy skin.
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breast side up in an oven-safe pan, preferably a cast iron skillet. Truss the legs by tying them together with kitchen twine to promote even cooking. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and rub it all over the skin with your hands.
- Season: Season the chicken generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Pat the seasoning into the skin with your hands for maximum flavor absorption.
- Roast: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 70 to 90 minutes. To check doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when the chicken is properly cooked.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes on a cutting board. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and juicy. Slice and serve as desired.
Notes
- Learn how to roast a chicken! This recipe uses only a few simple ingredients but delivers fantastic flavor and texture.
- Using a cast iron pan or oven-safe skillet helps achieve even cooking and crispy skin.
- Trussing the legs helps the bird cook evenly and keeps it looking neat.
- Bringing the chicken to room temperature before roasting ensures more consistent cooking.
- Always rest the chicken before carving to keep it juicy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 411 kcal
- Sugar: 0.01 g
- Sodium: 127 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 0.1 g
- Fiber: 0.1 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 136 mg
