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Classic Roast Chicken

This simple classic roast chicken recipe is easy to prepare, flavorful, and perfect for family meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 whole whole chicken (about 3–4 lb / 1.4–1.8 kg)
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • 1 whole lemon, halved
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 small onion, quartered
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
  • 1 whole carrot, cut into large pieces (optional)
  • 1 stalk celery, cut into large pieces (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Remove any packets from inside the chicken and pat the bird dry with paper towels.
  3. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil or melted butter.
  4. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and thyme evenly over the outside and inside of the chicken.
  5. Put the lemon halves, garlic, and onion inside the cavity.
  6. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine or tuck them under the bird. Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan.
  7. Scatter carrot and celery pieces around the chicken if using.
Cooking
  1. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes, or until the juices run clear and an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  2. For extra color, broil 2–3 minutes at the end, watching closely so it does not burn.
Serving
  1. Let the chicken rest 10–15 minutes before carving.
  2. Carve the chicken into pieces and serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
  3. Spoon pan juices over the meat for more flavor.

Notes

Pat the chicken very dry so the skin gets crispy during roasting. Use a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking or overcooking. Let the chicken rest so juices stay in the meat. For more baking and oven tips, see the classic American carrot cake recipe which has good notes on oven heat and timing.