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Homemade Juicy Whole Roast Chicken photo

Juicy Whole Roast Chicken

This Juicy Whole Roast Chicken is a simple, flavorful classic with crispy skin and tender meat—perfect for any meal or occasion!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken about 4-5 lbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lemon quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme chopped
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 onion quartered
  • 2 carrots chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped

Equipment

  • Roasting pan or oven-safe skillet
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Kitchen twine
  • Basting brush
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

  1. Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  2. Place the chicken breast-side up on a plate or cutting board.
  3. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil, making sure to cover every surface.
  4. Season generously with salt and pepper, both inside the cavity and on the skin.
  5. Stuff the cavity with the quartered lemon, half of the minced garlic, and a few sprigs of rosemary and thyme.
  6. Arrange the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of your roasting pan.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining garlic and herbs over the vegetables, along with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  8. Place the chicken on top of the vegetable bed, breast-side up.
  9. Tuck the wing tips under the bird to prevent burning.
  10. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  11. Remove the chicken from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
  12. Carve the chicken into pieces and serve alongside the roasted vegetables. Spoon pan juices over the chicken or use for gravy.

Notes

  • Dry the chicken thoroughly before roasting to ensure crispy skin.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check for perfect doneness without overcooking.
  • Let the chicken rest before carving to keep it juicy and tender.