Oven-roasted whole chicken (crispy outside, juicy inside)
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Serves: 4–6 people
Ingredients
For the chicken:
1 whole chicken (4–5 lb/1.8–2.3 kg), cleaned
3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
1½ tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ teaspoon of dried thyme
½ teaspoon of dried rosemary
½ teaspoon of dried oregano
½ teaspoon of chilli flakes (optional).
1 lemon, halved
1 onion, quartered
4 cloves of garlic, crushed
Fresh herbs (optional: rosemary, thyme and parsley).
Optional extras for extra flavour:
½ cup of chicken broth or water for the pan.
1 tbsp butter (for basting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven.
Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F.
2. Prepare the chicken.
Pat the chicken completely dry with kitchen roll (this is important for achieving crispy skin).
Place the chicken in a roasting pan or oven-safe dish.
3. Season
In a small bowl, mix:
Olive oil (or butter)
Salt
Pepper
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder.
Thyme, rosemary and oregano.
Chilli flakes (if using).
Rub the mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.
Under the skin (gently lift the skin over the breast).
Inside the cavity
4. Stuff the chicken.
Place the following inside the cavity:
Lemon halves.
Onion quarters
Garlic cloves
Fresh herbs (optional).
5. Roast.
Pour the chicken broth or water into the bottom of the pan.
Roast uncovered for 1 hour and 15–20 minutes.
Baste once or twice with the pan juices, if desired.
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 75°C/165°F.
The internal temperature reaches 75°C/165°F.
the juices run clear.
The skin is golden and crispy.
6. Rest and serve.
Remove from the oven.
Leave to rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.
Serving suggestions:
Roasted potatoes
Steamed vegetables
Rice or couscous.
Fresh salad
Gravy made from the pan juices.
Pro tips:
For extra crispy skin, increase the heat to 220°C/425°F for the last 10 minutes.
For a smoky flavour, add ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika.
For a lemon and herb flavour, add extra lemon zest to the seasoning.
