How To Cook Roast Chicken Perfectly

Roast chicken is a classic and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners and special occasions. It can be intimidating to cook a whole chicken, but with a few tips and tricks, you can make a delicious and juicy roast chicken every time.

To start, preheat your oven to 425°F. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper inside and out, and add any other herbs or spices that you prefer.

Next, place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan and tuck the wings under the bird. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine for even cooking.

Roast the chicken for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the chicken with melted butter or pan drippings every 30 minutes to keep it moist.

When the chicken is done, let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve with your favorite sides for a delicious and satisfying meal.

For a variation, you can also add vegetables such as carrots, onions, and potatoes to the roasting pan for a one-pan meal. Just make sure to cut them into evenly sized pieces and toss them with oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the pan.

Here are the steps for cooking roast chicken perfectly:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
2. Remove the giblets from the chicken (if any) and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like.
4. Truss the chicken by tying the legs together with kitchen twine (optional, but it helps the chicken cook evenly).
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast-side up.
6. Roast the chicken for 20 minutes per pound (450g) or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the meat (usually the thigh) reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer.
7. Baste the chicken with its own juices every 20-30 minutes during cooking.
8. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking before carving and serving.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked roast chicken!

With these simple steps, you can make a perfect roast chicken that’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy!