Ready in: 1 hour 30 minutes · Serves: 4-6 · Technique: Roasting · Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Quick Answer
A perfectly roasted chicken makes every holiday gathering special with its crispy skin and juicy meat.
As the leaves turn golden and the air cools in New York City, the anticipation for the cozy gatherings of Thanksgiving and Christmas fills the air. With each festive season, I find myself drawn to the comforting ritual of roasting a chicken. The aroma of golden-brown skin and tender, juicy meat wafting through my kitchen always feels like home. Today, I’m excited to share my take on the classic roasted chicken, a dish that deserves a spot at every holiday table.
A Holiday Essential
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Achieve perfectly crispy skin with juicy, tender meat every time.
- Simple ingredients create deep, comforting flavors that evoke holiday memories.
- Versatile recipe that allows for customization with your favorite herbs and vegetables.
- Impressive dish that brings family and friends together around the table.
- Create incredible leftovers for future meals, maximizing your efforts.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients for your roasted chicken:
Main Components
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper
- 1 lemon
- 4 cloves garlic
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or sage)
- Vegetables for roasting (carrots, potatoes, and onions)
How to Make Perfectly Roasted Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps for a delicious roasted chicken that will impress everyone at your holiday gathering.
Step 1: Prepping the Chicken
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure that the skin crisps up nicely. Generously season the cavity with salt and pepper, then squeeze the juice of the lemon inside and add the lemon halves, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs.
Step 2: Seasoning and Trussing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin as well. Then, truss the chicken by tying the legs together with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking and keep the aromatics inside.
Step 3: Roasting
Place the prepared chicken in a cast-iron skillet and surround it with the chopped vegetables. The veggies will soak up the delicious drippings. Roast in the preheated oven, checking the internal temperature after about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Look for a temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
Step 4: Resting Before Serving
After removing the chicken from the oven, let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute, ensuring tender, juicy meat when you carve into it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the drying step: A wet chicken leads to steamed skin, not crispy skin.
- Overcrowding the pan with veggies: This can cause steaming instead of roasting.
- Cutting into the chicken too soon: Letting it rest will give you juicy meat instead of dry slices.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use a thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, invest in a reliable meat thermometer.
- Experiment with flavors: Try different herbs or add spices like paprika for a unique twist.
- Save the bones: Use leftover bones to make a rich, flavorful stock that can be the base for soups later on.
Variations
- Substitute different citrus like lime or orange for a distinct flavor.
- Replace olive oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
- Try different vegetables such as sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts.
How to Serve
- Pair with a fresh salad for a light and balanced meal.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
- Add a side of your favorite grains, like rice or quinoa, for a hearty dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can season the chicken the night before and refrigerate it to enhance the flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Freezing: Shred leftover chicken and freeze it for later use in soups or casseroles.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through countless roasts in my New York City kitchen, I’ve found that the key to a succulent roast chicken is patience—both in preparation and in resting. The reward is not just a meal, but a gathering of family and friends around the table, sharing stories and laughter, making the effort worthwhile.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 1 whole chicken · Serving Size: 4-6 servings
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 30g protein · 0g carbs · 24g fat
Perfectly Roasted Chicken for Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season the cavity with salt and pepper, then add lemon juice inside along with lemon halves, garlic cloves, and herbs.
- Whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub this mixture all over the chicken and truss the legs with kitchen twine.
- Place chicken in a cast-iron skillet surrounded by chopped vegetables. Roast in the oven, checking the internal temperature after 1 hour and 15 minutes, aiming for 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Notes
FAQs
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to determine if your chicken is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast; it should read 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s not recommended to roast a frozen chicken, as it won’t cook evenly. Always thaw your chicken completely in the refrigerator before roasting for the best results.
What should I do with leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also shred the chicken and freeze it for later use in soups or other dishes.
