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Whole Roast Chicken Recipe

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4 from 2 reviews

This simple and classic Whole Roast Chicken recipe delivers a perfectly roasted bird with crispy skin and juicy meat, enhanced by kosher salt seasoning and complemented by optional flavorful sauces such as basil pesto, buttermilk ranch dressing, chimichurri, and romesco sauce. An ideal roast for a comforting family dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 (3½-to 5-pound) whole chicken
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt

Optional Sauces

  • Basil Pesto
  • Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
  • Chimichurri
  • Romesco Sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a rack in the center position to ensure even roasting of your chicken.
  2. Dry the chicken: Thoroughly pat the chicken dry both inside and out using paper towels to help achieve crispy skin during roasting.
  3. Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breast side up in a large ovenproof skillet or roasting dish. If you like, tie the legs together with kitchen string and tuck the wing tips under the chicken body for even cooking and a tidy appearance.
  4. Season the chicken: Generously season the entire chicken, inside and out, with the kosher salt to enhance flavor and draw out moisture for crispier skin.
  5. Roast the chicken: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven, calculating 15 minutes per pound. Begin checking for doneness 20 minutes before the estimated finish time using a meat thermometer or by checking that juices run clear.
  6. Rest the chicken: Once cooked through, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist, tender meat.
  7. Carve and serve: Carve the chicken and serve with your choice of basil pesto, buttermilk ranch dressing, chimichurri, or romesco sauce to elevate the flavor.

Notes

  • Resting the chicken after roasting is critical to keep the meat juicy and tender.
  • Using a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh ensures the chicken is safely cooked.
  • Tying the legs together promotes even cooking and improves presentation but is optional.
  • Optional sauces add varied vibrant flavors and can be served on the side to suit different tastes.