Pin it A comforting, rustic roast chicken infused with fresh rosemary and garlic, inspired by classic cozy home cooking. This dish features tender, juicy meat and a fragrant, crispy skin perfect for a relaxed family dinner.
This roast chicken recipe brings back warm memories of family dinners and the comforting smells of home.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 whole chicken (about 1.5 kg/3.3 lbs) preferably free-range, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Aromatics: 4 large garlic cloves peeled and smashed, 3-4 sprigs fresh rosemary, 1 lemon halved, 1 medium onion quartered
- Vegetables (optional for roasting with chicken): 3 medium carrots peeled and cut into large chunks, 2 celery stalks cut into large chunks, 3 medium potatoes quartered
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Step 2:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the chicken then season generously inside and out with salt and pepper.
- Step 3:
- Stuff the cavity with the smashed garlic cloves, rosemary sprigs, both lemon halves, and half of the onion.
- Step 4:
- Arrange the carrots, celery, potatoes, and remaining onion in a large roasting pan. Place the chicken on top of the vegetables breast side up.
- Step 5:
- Tie the legs together with kitchen twine for even cooking (optional).
- Step 6:
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour 30 minutes or until the juices run clear when the thickest part of the thigh is pierced and a thermometer reads 75°C (165°F).
- Step 7:
- Baste the chicken with pan juices halfway through cooking. If the skin browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
- Step 8:
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with roasted vegetables and pan juices.
Pin it This dish has become a family favorite bringing everyone together around the dinner table.
Required Tools
Roasting pan, meat thermometer, kitchen twine (optional), carving knife and fork
Allergen Information
Contains no common allergens Always double-check ingredient labels for processed items
Nutritional Information
Calories 450 Total Fat 24 g Carbohydrates 18 g Protein 42 g per serving
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This roast chicken recipe is an easy way to impress guests while enjoying a hearty home-cooked meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Rub olive oil generously and baste the chicken halfway through roasting to retain moisture and create a crispy skin.
- → Can I use other herbs besides rosemary?
Yes, thyme or sage work well as alternative herbs and offer different aromatic notes.
- → What vegetables complement this dish?
Carrots, celery, potatoes, and onions roasted alongside the chicken add depth and absorb flavorful juices.
- → Is marinating recommended?
Marinating the chicken with olive oil, garlic, and herbs for up to 24 hours enhances flavor and tenderness.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The thickest part of the thigh should reach 75°C (165°F), and juices should run clear when pierced.