Save 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 has become a centerpiece at our family dinners, bringing everyone together with its irresistible aroma and comforting taste.
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
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Prepare chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the chicken then season generously inside and out with salt and pepper.
- Stuff cavity:
- Stuff the cavity with the smashed garlic cloves rosemary sprigs both lemon halves and half of the onion.
- Arrange vegetables:
- Arrange the carrots celery potatoes and remaining onion in a large roasting pan. Place the chicken on top of the vegetables breast side up.
- Tie legs:
- Tie the legs together with kitchen twine for even cooking (optional).
- Roast chicken:
- 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).
- Baste:
- Baste the chicken with pan juices halfway through cooking. If the skin browns too quickly cover loosely with foil.
- Rest and serve:
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with roasted vegetables and pan juices.
Save This recipe brings fond memories of family gatherings around the dinner table especially during chilly weekends.
Notes
Leftovers make great sandwiches or can be used in salads and soups. Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir.
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.
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Enjoy a perfectly roasted chicken that’s both flavorful and tender every time.
Your Questions Answered
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Pat the chicken dry and rub olive oil over it before seasoning. Basting halfway through roasting helps retain moisture.
- → Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary?
Yes, thyme or sage make excellent alternatives, each bringing unique aromatic flavors.
- → What vegetables work well with this dish?
Carrots, celery, potatoes, and onions roast beautifully with the chicken, adding flavor and a hearty side.
- → Should I tie the chicken legs during cooking?
Tying legs with kitchen twine promotes even cooking, but it is optional based on preference.
- → How do I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
Cooking until juices run clear when pierced and an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) ensures thorough doneness.