Oven-Roasted Chicken Recipe for Delicious

Name: Oven-Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs); 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 lemon, halved; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 2 cups carrots and potatoes, chopped (optional)

By Lina Baker

March 25, 2025

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There’s something utterly magical about the aroma of oven-roasted chicken wafting through your home. Picture this: juicy chicken coated in savory herbs and spices, golden brown skin crackling as it roasts away in the oven while you sip a glass of wine (or two). The anticipation builds—dinner is going to be epic tonight

I remember the first time I made oven-roasted chicken; it was a chaotic family gathering where the turkey had mysteriously vanished (thank you, Uncle Bob). I quickly pivoted to my trusty roast chicken recipe—what a crowd-pleaser The aroma drew everyone into the kitchen like moths to a flame as I plated up crispy skin and tender meat. It became my go-to dish for every gathering since then

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing oven-roasted chicken recipe is not only simple but also packed with flavor that will impress your guests
It’s visually stunning on any dinner table and can easily adapt to your pantry ingredients
Plus, the leftovers (if there are any) make for fabulous sandwiches or salads

Everyone raves about this dish after trying it at my place; even my picky cousin couldn’t resist going back for seconds

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Whole Chicken: A 4-5 pound bird is ideal for roasting; look for one that feels plump and has healthy skin.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor; it helps achieve that gorgeous crispy skin.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme work wonders; they add aromatic notes that elevate the entire dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will infuse delightful flavors; don’t shy away from adding more if you’re a garlic lover.
Lemon: A whole lemon adds brightness; cut it in half and stuff it inside the cavity for extra zing.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings but essential; they bring out all those wonderful flavors of the chicken.
Vegetables (optional): Carrots and potatoes can roast alongside the chicken; they soak up all the delicious drippings

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you prepare your chicken. A hot start ensures crispy skin right from the get-go.

Prepare Your Bird: Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying helps achieve that coveted crispy skin we all adore.

Add Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix olive oil with minced garlic, salt, pepper, chopped herbs, and lemon juice. Rub this magical mixture all over your chicken like you’re giving it a spa day

Stuff It Up: Take those lemon halves and stuff them into the cavity along with a few sprigs of herbs. This step keeps your chicken juicy and infused with bright flavors.

Roast Away: Place your seasoned chicken breast side up in a roasting pan. Roast in preheated oven for about 1 hour 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Let It Rest: Once out of the oven, let your beautiful roast rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute—trust me; it’s worth the wait

You Must Know

Oven-roasted chicken is your ticket to juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin
The simple seasoning elevates the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser
Plus, the heavenly aroma will make everyone wander into the kitchen like moths to a flame

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Sear the chicken on all sides in a hot pan for added flavor before roasting it to perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs or add vegetables like carrots and potatoes for a complete one-pan meal. Experiment with different spices to create your unique flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover oven-roasted chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain its crispy skin.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F for safety and tenderness
Let the chicken rest before carving to enhance juiciness and flavor
Always season generously for maximum taste impact

I once made oven-roasted chicken for a family reunion, and it disappeared faster than I could say “seconds.” The compliments still echo in my mind

FAQs

FAQ

What’s the best way to ensure my oven-roasted chicken is juicy?

Brining your chicken beforehand can significantly enhance juiciness and flavor retention.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before roasting for even cooking results.

How can I achieve crispy skin on my oven-roasted chicken?

Patting the skin dry before seasoning helps achieve that perfect crispy texture while roasting.

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