Oven Roasted Whole Chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table, this Oven Roasted Whole Chicken is just the ticket! There’s something magical about the aroma of a whole chicken roasting away in the oven, filling your home with warmth and inviting everyone to gather around. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also delivers tender, juicy meat paired with perfectly crispy skin. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings alike.

I’ve made this Oven Roasted Whole Chicken countless times, and it always impresses! Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a stunning main course without stress.
• Flavor-packed: The blend of spices enhances the chicken’s natural flavors, making every bite memorable.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves roast chicken! It’s a meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
• Great for leftovers: Enjoy the deliciousness again in sandwiches or salads throughout the week.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this dish fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this Oven Roasted Whole Chicken recipe, you’ll need just a few pantry staples that create big flavors. Here’s what you’ll be using:

• 1 3-5 lb whole chicken (giblets removed (about 1.3-2.3 kg))
• 1 medium onion (peeled and halved)
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (olive oil or melted butter are great alternatives)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this Oven Roasted Whole Chicken is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these simple variations:

• Add more herbs: Toss in some fresh rosemary or sage for an extra aromatic touch.
• Experiment with citrus: Squeeze some lemon juice over the chicken before roasting for a zesty flavor boost.
• Try different oils: Swap avocado oil for grapeseed oil or even coconut oil for unique tastes.
• Stuff with veggies: Instead of just onions, fill the cavity with carrots and celery for added flavor and nutrition.

How to Make Oven Roasted Whole Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken

Start by letting your chicken rest at room temperature for 30-60 minutes if you have time. This step helps reduce steam during cooking, giving you that coveted crispy skin. Preheat your oven to 425ºF (218ºC) while you’re at it!

Step 2: Get Your Pan Ready

Line a 9X13” (23×33 cm) baking dish or roasting pan with parchment paper if you’d like. This makes cleanup easier later on!

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Place your whole chicken breast side up on the roasting pan. Remove any giblets inside and pat the skin dry with paper towels. Dry skin means better browning!

Step 4: Stuff and Flavor

Stuff the cavity with your halved onion for extra moisture and flavor—feel free to add garlic cloves or lemon slices too!

Step 5: Create Your Seasoning Paste

In a small bowl, mix together avocado oil (or your choice), salt, smoked paprika, onion powder, thyme, garlic powder, and black pepper until it forms a paste. This will be key in ensuring every inch of your chicken is seasoned perfectly!

Step 6: Apply That Flavor!

Brush your seasoned oil all over every exposed surface of the chicken using a pastry brush—this creates that beautiful golden crust we all love.

Step 7: Roast Away!

Place your chicken in the preheated oven. Roast for about 70-90 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165ºF (74ºC). If possible, baste it once or twice during cooking but avoid basting in the last 20 minutes if you want really crispy skin.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

Once done, remove your beautiful roasted chicken from the oven and let it rest on a platter for about five minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Slice up your tender Oven Roasted Whole Chicken and serve it alongside your favorite sides. If you want to make homemade gravy from those tasty juices left behind—go ahead! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Oven Roasted Whole Chicken

Ready to impress your family with a perfectly roasted whole chicken? Here are some expert tips to take your dish from good to great!

• Choose the right chicken size: A 3-5 lb chicken is ideal for roasting, as it ensures even cooking and leaves you with plenty of leftovers for salads or sandwiches.

• Let it rest before cooking: Allowing the chicken to sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes helps the meat cook more evenly and results in juicier, more flavorful meat.

• Use a meat thermometer: Invest in a good meat thermometer! This tool will help you achieve the perfect doneness without guesswork, ensuring that every piece is safe to eat and deliciously tender.

• Baste wisely: While basting can help keep moisture in, avoid it during the last 20 minutes of cooking. This allows the skin to crisp up beautifully while the meat remains juicy.

• Rest after cooking: Letting your chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before carving helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat, making every bite succulent and flavorful.

How to Serve Oven Roasted Whole Chicken

Presenting your oven-roasted whole chicken can elevate any meal into a special occasion. Here are some delightful ways to serve it!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Sprinkling chopped parsley or thyme over the chicken adds a lovely pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side not only looks beautiful but also provides a bright, zesty flavor that complements the richness of the chicken.

Side Dishes

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts make a perfect accompaniment. Simply toss them in olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast alongside your chicken for an easy one-pan meal.

• Garlic mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that pairs perfectly with roasted chicken. Their creamy texture balances out the crispy skin beautifully.

• Steamed green beans: Lightly steamed green beans add a vibrant color contrast and fresh crunch. Toss them with a bit of lemon juice or olive oil for extra zest.

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty roast chicken. It’s healthy and satisfying!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Oven Roasted Whole Chicken will surely be a hit at any dinner table! Enjoy every mouthwatering bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Oven Roasted Whole Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it ahead of time and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week. Here’s how to store your chicken properly to maintain its flavor and texture.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• If you want to keep leftovers longer, consider freezing them.
• Wrap the cooled chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container and label with the date.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC).
• Place the chicken in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
• Cover with foil to prevent drying out and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making an Oven Roasted Whole Chicken that might help you along your cooking journey!

How long does it take to cook an Oven Roasted Whole Chicken?

The cooking time will depend on the size of your chicken, but generally, it takes about 70-90 minutes at 425ºF (218ºC). Always ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165ºF (74ºC).

Can I use other oils for my Oven Roasted Whole Chicken?

Yes! While avocado oil is great, you can also use olive oil or melted butter. Each will add its own unique flavor while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

What should I serve with my Oven Roasted Whole Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can create a full meal by adding sides that you love!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can roast your chicken ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge or freeze them for later. Perfect for meal prep!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Oven Roasted Whole Chicken recipe brings joy to your table as it has mine! It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that fills your home with warmth and beautiful aromas. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and sides, and don’t hesitate to share this delightful recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!