Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of cooking a whole chicken. There’s something so comforting and satisfying about roasting a chicken until it’s perfectly juicy and flavorful. This recipe for Bake Whole Chicken is a classic that never fails to impress with its crispy skin and tender meat. Let’s get started on creating a delicious centerpiece for your dinner table!
**Bake Whole Chicken**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, quartered
– Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the chicken from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up nicely during roasting. Place the chicken on a cutting board, breast-side up.
2. **Season the Chicken:** Drizzle the olive oil all over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mixture liberally all over the chicken, making sure to rub it into every nook and cranny for maximum flavor.
3. **Add Flavor:** Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the quartered lemon. The citrus will infuse the meat with a bright, zesty flavor as it roasts. Feel free to add any additional herbs like thyme or rosemary into the cavity for an extra aromatic boost.
4. **Tie the Legs:** If your chicken still has its legs untied, use kitchen twine to tie them together. This helps the chicken cook more evenly and keeps the stuffing secure inside.
5. **Roast the Chicken:** Place the seasoned and stuffed chicken in a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet, breast-side up. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
6. **Rest and Garnish:** Once the chicken is beautifully golden brown and cooked through, remove it from the oven. Allow the chicken to rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful bird. Garnish your baked whole chicken with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a vibrant finishing touch before serving.
And there you have it – a perfectly baked whole chicken that’s sure to please your family and guests alike. The crispy skin, flavorful meat, and aromatic herbs make it a timeless classic for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious dish as the star of your next cozy dinner gathering!
