How to Roast a Whole Chicken Evenly
Achieve a perfectly roasted whole chicken with crispy skin and juicy meat by following these simple steps.
Notes
Using a roasting rack ensures even cooking and allows heat to circulate around the chicken.
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- 2 Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season generously inside and out with salt and pepper.
- 3 Stuff the cavity with aromatics like halved lemons, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs.
- 4 Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the body.
- 5 Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting rack set inside a roasting pan.
- 6 Roast for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- 7 Remove from oven and let rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
- 8 Optional: Baste with melted butter halfway through roasting for extra flavor and crispiness.
Ingredients to explore
Acorn Squash
Acorn squash is a winter squash variety known for its distinctive teardrop shape and deep ridges resembling the texture of an acorn shell. Originating in the Americas, it has been cultivated for centuries and is a staple in autumn cuisine. The flesh is sweet and nutty with a hint of earthiness, offering a delightful contrast to savory dishes. Its texture is dense yet tender when cooked, making it ideal for roasting or pureeing. In cooking, acorn squash holds its shape well and absorbs flavors from herbs and spices, enhancing both its taste and versatility in recipes.
American Cheese Slices
Those iconic, perfectly pliable slices of creamy, mild American cheese. Each slice boasts a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture that brings comfort to any dish.
Recipes to try
Savory Breakfast Bowls with Quinoa and Eggs
A hearty bowl brimming with fluffy quinoa, perfectly poached eggs, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a zesty morning start.
Maple Mustard Pork Chops with Apple Slaw
Tender pork chops kissed with a tangy maple mustard glaze, served alongside a crisp, sweet-tart apple slaw.