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Easy roast chicken recipe with crispy skin and juicy meat

Easy Roast Chicken

This Easy Roast Chicken Recipe features crispy skin and tender, juicy meat, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 whole chicken 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs) Choose a chicken that fits your size preference.
  • 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste Salt Use sea salt or kosher salt for better flavor.
  • to taste Pepper Freshly ground black pepper is ideal.
  • 1 whole 1 lemon, halved For added flavor inside the chicken.
  • 4 cloves 4 cloves garlic, crushed Crush garlic for stronger flavor.
  • 1 handful Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) Use a mix of herbs for variety.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). A hot oven is pivotal for that crispy skin!
  2. Prepare your chicken. Pat it dry using paper towels. This is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy skin.
  3. Season generously. In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, inside and out.
  4. Add flavor. Place the halved lemon and crushed garlic inside the cavity of the chicken. Tuck in fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking
  1. Place the seasoned chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
  2. Check if done by ensuring the juices run clear when cutting between the leg and thigh.
Resting
  1. Once done, let the chicken rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving.

Notes

For optimal results, let the chicken come to room temperature before roasting. Ensure it's fully dry for a crispy skin.