The Best Homemade Roasted Chicken Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This roasted chicken recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with juicy, flavorful results every time.
- Crispy, golden skin that’s packed with savory herbs and spices.
- Tender, juicy meat that falls right off the bone for the perfect bite.
- Minimal prep time with maximum flavor, making it a go-to weeknight dinner.
Recipe
Roasting a chicken at home is a classic and rewarding culinary endeavor. This simple recipe yields a tender, juicy chicken with crispy golden skin, perfect for a hearty family meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 lemon, halved
4 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub the chicken evenly with olive oil.
- In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle the mixture all over the chicken, including the cavity.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and fresh herbs.
- Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting pan or baking dish fitted with a rack.
- Roast for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Notes:
For extra flavor, add vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions to the roasting pan.
Equipment:
Roasting pan or baking dish with rack, meat thermometer
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
This roasted chicken recipe is packed with essential nutrients, making it a wholesome and balanced meal option. Below is the detailed nutritional information per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 284 kcal |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my roasted chicken with creamy mashed potatoes and bright, crisp steamed veggies—they’re the perfect pair. The potatoes soak up all the delicious juices, while the veggies add a fresh crunch to every bite. Trust me, this combo makes the meal feel complete without any fuss.
Mashed Potatoes
When it comes to pairing roasted chicken, I can’t help but lean toward creamy mashed potatoes – they’re a classic for good reason. There’s something magical about their creamy texture and fluffy consistency that complements the crispy, juicy chicken perfectly. I love using Yukon Gold potatoes because they mash so smoothly, and a splash of warm milk with a dollop of butter takes them to the next level. A sprinkle of salt and pepper ties it all together. Trust me, once you’ve tried this combo, you’ll understand why it’s a timeless favorite at my table.
Steamed Vegetables
Steamed vegetables are a bright, healthy side that perfectly balances the rich flavors of roasted chicken. I love how quick sides like these come together with minimal effort yet add so much color and nutrition to the plate. A mix of carrots, broccoli, and green beans works wonders, but you can use whatever’s in your fridge. Simply steam them until tender-crisp, then sprinkle with a pinch of salt or a drizzle of olive oil. They’re light, fresh, and the perfect complement to the savory chicken. Plus, they’re one of the most versatile healthy sides you can whip up in minutes!
