Juicy Roasted Chicken

Why Everyone Loves It

Here’s why this roasted chicken is a favorite:

• Perfectly Juicy: The butter and celery inside the cavity ensure that the chicken remains moist and tender throughout the roasting process.

• Crispy Skin: Drying the chicken’s skin before roasting results in that crispy, golden exterior everyone loves.

• Simple Seasonings: With just salt, pepper, and onion powder, this recipe lets the natural flavors of the chicken shine.

• Easy to Make: It requires minimal prep and a little time in the oven—perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

Here’s what you’ll need to make this juicy, flavorful roast chicken:

• 1 (3-pound) whole chicken, giblets removed

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon onion powder (or to taste)

• ½ cup butter

• 1 stalk celery, leaves removed

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Remove the giblets from the chicken and pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the skin is dry, which helps achieve a crispy texture.

2. Season the Chicken

• Generously season the inside and outside of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and onion powder.

• Place 3 tablespoons of butter inside the chicken cavity. This will help infuse flavor while keeping the meat moist.

• Arrange the remaining butter (about ¼ cup) in dollops all over the outside of the chicken to enhance the crispy skin.

3. Add Celery for Extra Flavor

• Stuff the celery stalk (with leaves removed) inside the cavity. It will release a subtle vegetable flavor while the chicken roasts.

4. Roast the Chicken

• Place the seasoned chicken in a roasting pan (or on a baking sheet if you don’t have a pan with a rack).

• Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 1 hour 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If you prefer crispier skin, you can roast it at 425°F (220°C) for about 50-60 minutes for a quicker, more intense roast.

5. Let the Chicken Rest

• Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more juicy and flavorful.

6. Carve and Serve

• After resting, carve the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides. The roasted chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Total Time: 2 hours (including resting time)

Variations

This recipe is highly versatile. Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic to the cavity for added flavor.

• Spicy Chicken: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika on the skin for a bit of heat and smoky flavor.

• Stuffing: You can add a bread or rice stuffing inside the cavity if you like, though this will affect the cooking time.

Storage/Reheating

• Fridge: Leftover roasted chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheat: To reheat, place the chicken back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.

• Freezing: This chicken freezes well. After carving, store the leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

FAQs

Can I use a larger or smaller chicken?

Yes, you can use a larger or smaller chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly: For every extra pound of chicken, add about 15 minutes of roasting time.

Do I have to use celery?

No, but celery adds moisture and subtle flavor. You can replace it with other aromatics like onions, garlic, or herbs if preferred.

What if I don’t have a roasting pan?

You can use any oven-safe baking dish or sheet pan with a wire rack to elevate the chicken. This allows the heat to circulate and ensures even cooking.

Can I roast the chicken at a higher temperature for a quicker cook time?

Yes, you can roast the chicken at 425°F (220°C) for 50-60 minutes for a quicker, crispier result. Just be sure to check the internal temperature for doneness.

Can I make this recipe with skinless chicken?

This recipe is best with skin-on chicken to achieve the crispy, golden skin. Skinless chicken won’t give you the same texture, but you can still cook it using a similar method with boneless chicken breasts or thighs.

Conclusion

Juicy Roasted Chicken is a simple, delicious, and foolproof recipe that yields mouthwatering results every time. Whether you’re roasting for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this chicken will be the star of the meal. The combination of tender, flavorful meat with a golden, crispy skin makes this dish one that everyone will enjoy. Add your favorite sides and enjoy this comforting meal!

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