The Best Homemade Roast Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade roast recipe is a game-changer, bringing warmth and flavor to your table with ease. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, with just a few basic ingredients that create a meal everyone will rave about. The tender, juicy roast melts in your mouth, packed with rich, savory flavors that feel like a hug in every bite. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. And don’t forget the aroma—it’ll have your whole house smelling like a cozy kitchen, making it worth the wait.
Recipe
Roast chicken is a classic dish that’s both comforting and versatile. This simple recipe yields tender, flavorful meat with a crispy golden skin, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken with olive oil or melted butter, covering the entire surface.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and thyme. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken, including the cavity.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, onion quarters, and garlic cloves.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or baking dish.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add fresh herbs like rosemary or sage to the cavity.
- Use a meat thermometer to verify the chicken is fully cooked.
Equipment:
- Roasting pan or baking dish
- Meat thermometer
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 4-6
Nutrition
Here’s an overview of the nutritional content for this homemade roast recipe. The values are based on a standard serving size.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 40 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Cholesterol | 120 mg |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade roast with sides like creamy mashed potatoes or roasted veggies, as they complement the rich flavors perfectly. A glass of red wine or punch works wonders with the dish, depending on your mood. What’s your go-to combination when serving a roast?
Side Dishes
When I’m planning a roast dinner, I like to think about sides that balance the flavors and make the meal feel complete. Creamy mashed potatoes are my go-to because they’re comforting and pair perfectly with the rich meat. I also love roasted veggies, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, for a bit of sweetness and crunch. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll toss them in olive oil and rosemary. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness, while fluffy Yorkshire pudding or buttery rolls soak up all the delicious juices. Together, these sides make every bite feel special and satisfying.
Beverage Pairings
After picking out the perfect sides to complement your roast, it’s worth considering what to sip alongside the meal. I always reach for a glass of full-bodied red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot—it pairs beautifully with the rich flavors. If wine isn’t your thing, a cold craft beer, like an amber ale, works wonders. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or a tangy homemade iced tea. My grandma swore by a glass of apple cider with her roast—it’s cozy and slightly sweet. Whatever you choose, make sure it feels like part of the celebration.
