This classic roasted chicken is perfect for a family dinner. Tender, juicy whole chicken with a crispy golden skin will have everyone going back for more!
Roasting vegetables, i.e. carrots, onions, celery, potatoes (optional)
Instructions
Preheat oven to 400F.
Remove innards from chicken cavity and set aside for stock. Rinse and pat dry chicken.
Rub and massage the entire chicken with salt. Sprinkle seasonings on top.
In a 9×13 roasting pan, place the chicken on its side with one leg up. Surround the chicken with the roasting vegetables, if using, to help keep the chicken on its side. You can use crumpled up balls of aluminum foil if you are not using vegetables and need to prevent the chicken from falling over.
Brush the skin with the melted butter and roast for 25 minutes.
Using gloves or mitts, turn the chicken completely over so that it is on its other side with the other leg facing up. Again, use the roasting vegetables or the aluminum foil to prevent the chicken from falling over.
Brush the skin with the melted butter and roast for 25 minutes.
Using gloves or mitts, turn the chicken breast side up and roast or 15-30 minutes more, or until the chicken registers 170F on an instant read thermometer and the juices run clear.
Remove to a platter and let stand for 10 to 15 minutes.
Notes
Use a variety of seasonings. You can stick to the traditional Poultry Seasoning flavor with lemon, rosemary, and thyme. Or try other seasonings like Ranch Dressing Mix, Cajun Seasoning, or Blackened Seasoning! Just remember your leftovers will retain that flavor so plan your secondary meals accordingly. (Like all Mexican-themed meals after seasoning with Taco Seasoning Mix!)
Try roasting TWO chickens at a time. If the oven is already on, and you’re already turning one chicken, why not save time and use this recipe for a roasted chicken to make extra?
Make chicken stock! After making your oven roasted whole chicken and picking the meat off the bones, make chicken stock or chicken broth! It’s an easy way to get an additional ingredient prepped for future meals, without any additional cost.