How do I prepare a garlic roasted chicken ahead of time?

Prepare the chicken the night before by rubbing it with your butter and herb mixture. Leave it uncovered in the fridge overnight for the skin to dry out, which helps to achieve a crispier crust when roasted.

What are the signs of a perfectly cooked chicken?

Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone; it should read 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear if pierced, and the skin will be golden and crisp.

What is the best size chicken for roasting?

A whole chicken between 39 to 4 pounds is ideal for roasting within about an hour and a quarter. Larger birds will need extended cooking times to ensure they are fully cooked.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for roasting?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs cook faster than a whole chicken and will take less time in the oven. Broiling them briefly at the end can add a lovely caramelized finish.

Garlic Roasted Chicken: Juicy and Simple Recipe

Description

🍗 Experience a perfectly juicy, flavorful roast chicken with this easy garlic herb butter recipe that ensures every bite is succulent.
🌿 Enhance your dinner with the delightful aroma of herbs and garlic that fills your kitchen, making this dish a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Whole chicken, about 3½ to 4 pounds
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
1 bunch fresh thyme, plus 1 tablespoon thyme leaves
1 head garlic, sliced in half horizontally
½ onion
Lemon slices for serving

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F.
Prepare the chicken by removing giblets, patting it dry, tucking wings underneath the breast, and tying legs with kitchen twine.
Mix melted butter, salt, pepper, and thyme in a small bowl, then rub the mixture all over the chicken, getting underneath the skin as well.
Stuff the cavity with garlic, onion, and thyme sprigs.
Place the chicken breast-side up in a baking dish. Optionally, add extra onion, lemon, or garlic to the pan.
Roast in the oven until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh, around 60-75 minutes.
Spoon pan juices over the chicken during roasting for additional flavor.
Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving with the pan drippings.

Notes

🧵 Use kitchen twine to tie the chicken legs for even cooking and juicier meat.
📏 Pat chicken dry to achieve crispy skin; increase roasting temperature initially to sear the skin.
🔥 Optionally, broil for a few minutes after roasting for extra crispiness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rest Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dinner
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 chicken
Calories: 506 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 792 mg
Fat: 37 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 36 g
Cholesterol: 165 mg