Easy Roast Chicken
Hola! If there’s one dish that never fails to remind me of Sunday afternoons with family, it’s roast chicken. Growing up in Orlando, we’d gather around the kitchen as my mama seasoned a whole chicken with just a few simple ingredients, and the smell alone could pull everyone together. The beauty of this super easy roast chicken is in its simplicity: just olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. You don’t need anything fancy to create a golden, juicy chicken that feels like a celebration at the table. If you’ve ever wondered how to make roast chicken that’s foolproof, this recipe will be your new go-to.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 1 hour 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 35 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Cuisine | American, Holiday Classic |
| Best Season | All year, especially Christmas and winter holidays |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: With just a chicken, olive oil, and seasoning, you can make an impressive meal without complicated steps.
- Crispy, golden skin: The high oven temperature ensures the chicken skin comes out crisp while the meat stays tender.
- Versatile for any occasion: This roast chicken is perfect for everyday dinners, but it also shines as one of the best Christmas whole chicken recipes.
- Healthier than takeout: Roasting at home means no additives, just wholesome flavor that fits right into healthy roast chicken recipes.
- Leftovers made easy: Use the extra meat for salads, soups, or wraps the next day, making this dish as practical as it is delicious.
Super Easy Roast Chicken Recipe for Juicy Perfection
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Learn how to roast a chicken with just olive oil, seasoning, and simple steps. This super easy roast chicken recipe is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts.
Ingredients
1 (4 to 5-pound) whole chicken, giblets removed
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a rack in the lower third.
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and bring it to room temperature.
3. Place breast-side up in a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan. Truss the legs if possible.
4. Rub olive oil over the chicken and season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
5. Roast for 70 to 90 minutes, until the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Notes
If you don’t have twine, roast the chicken without trussing but check doneness 10–15 minutes earlier.
Save the pan drippings to make a quick gravy.
Leftover chicken is great for soups, salads, and wraps.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Holiday
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 294
- Sugar: 0.01g
- Sodium: 89mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.1g
- Carbohydrates: 0.1g
- Fiber: 0.1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Ingredients
- 1 (4 to 5-pound) whole chicken, giblets removed
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip |
|---|---|
| Whole chicken | Choose a 4 to 5-pound chicken for even cooking. Organic or free-range options give the best flavor. |
| Olive oil | Helps crisp the skin while keeping the meat juicy. Avocado oil can be used as a substitute. |
| Italian seasoning | If unavailable, use dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. |
| Kosher salt | Season generously for the best flavor penetration. |
| Black pepper | Freshly ground adds more depth than pre-ground pepper. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the rack in the lower third. This ensures even cooking and a crispy skin.
- Prepare the chicken: Let the chicken come to room temperature, then pat it dry with paper towels. A dry surface ensures a crispier skin.
- Position the chicken: Place breast-side up in a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan. Truss the legs with kitchen twine if possible.
- Season generously: Rub olive oil over the entire chicken, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Pat in the spices with your hands.
- Roast to perfection: Place in the oven and roast for 70 to 90 minutes, depending on chicken size. For accuracy, use a thermometer in the thigh—the temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest before carving: Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes on a cutting board before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute for maximum flavor.
Helpful Tips
- If you don’t have twine, roast the chicken without trussing but check it 10–15 minutes earlier.
- Always let the chicken rest after cooking to prevent dry meat.
- Use a meat thermometer for guaranteed results.
- Save the pan drippings to make an easy gravy.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Dry the chicken well: Moisture prevents crisp skin, so patting it dry is key.
- Season under the skin: For extra flavor, gently lift the skin and rub seasoning directly onto the meat.
- Rotate the pan: Halfway through cooking, rotate the skillet for even browning.
- Let it rest uncovered: Avoid covering with foil, as steam softens the skin.
Recipe Variations
- Herb butter roast chicken: Mix softened butter with garlic and herbs, and rub under the skin for a richer flavor.
- Roast chicken with vegetables: Add carrots, potatoes, and onions around the chicken for a one-pan dinner.
- Lemon garlic roast chicken: Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and garlic cloves for a citrusy aroma.
- Spiced holiday chicken: Sprinkle with paprika, cinnamon, and rosemary for a festive twist.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can season and prep the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the fridge until ready to roast. Leftover cooked chicken keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, shred the meat and freeze in airtight bags for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this golden chicken on a wooden board for a rustic feel or on a platter surrounded by roasted vegetables for a festive table centerpiece. Add fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a final touch.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this roast chicken with creamy mashed potatoes, garlic green beans, or a fresh salad. For drinks, a crisp Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or until heated through. For quick reheating, use the microwave in 1-minute intervals, covering with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I know when roast chicken is fully cooked?
Check the thickest part of the thigh with a meat thermometer—it should read 165°F. The juices should also run clear.
2. Can I roast chicken without trussing?
Yes, but the legs may spread open while cooking. This can make the chicken cook a little faster, so check doneness earlier.
3. What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
Use individual herbs like thyme, oregano, basil, and rosemary. It gives the same aromatic flavor.
4. Can I use this recipe for turkey?
Yes, just increase the cooking time depending on the size of your bird. It’s a great base for turkey in oven recipes.
5. How do I keep chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook. Always rest the chicken before slicing to keep juices inside.
6. Can I stuff the chicken cavity with vegetables or fruit?
Absolutely! Lemons, onions, and garlic add extra flavor and aroma while roasting.
7. Is roast chicken healthy?
Yes, it’s a protein-rich meal that fits into healthy roast chicken recipes when made with olive oil and light seasoning.
Nutrition Information
| Serving Size | 1/6 of recipe |
|---|---|
| Calories | 294 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.1 g |
| Fat | 21 g |
| Fiber | 0.1 g |
| Sugar | 0.01 g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Conclusion
This super easy roast chicken recipe proves that sometimes the simplest meals are the best. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a perfectly crispy, juicy chicken that can star in both everyday dinners and holiday feasts. Give it a try, and your kitchen will never be without this timeless classic again.
You may also like my One Pot Chicken Orzo
