The Ultimate Roast Chicken Recipe: Perfectly Juicy with Crispy Skin

If there’s one dish that combines comfort, flavor, and simplicity, it’s a classic roast chicken. This recipe is foolproof and will give you a beautifully golden, juicy roast chicken with crispy skin every time. Follow these steps for the best roast chicken you’ll ever make, perfect for family dinners, holidays, or cozy gatherings.

How to make the best Crispy Roast Chicken

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

• 1 lemon, halved

• 1 head of garlic, halved

• Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and sage)

For the Vegetables (Optional):

• 1 pound baby potatoes, halved

• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

• 1 large onion, quartered

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat will ensure a crispy skin and seal in the juices.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps create a crispy, golden skin.

2. Season Generously: Rub the chicken inside and out with a generous amount of kosher salt and black pepper. Go big on the seasoning here—it makes a huge difference in flavor.

3. Add Flavor Inside: Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, garlic, and fresh herbs. This infuses the meat with a subtle citrus and herb flavor without overpowering it.

4. Rub with Oil or Butter: Rub the skin with olive oil or melted butter, which helps achieve that beautiful golden-brown color and adds richness.

Step 3: Tuck and Truss

• Truss the Legs (Optional): Tie the chicken’s legs together with kitchen twine to help it cook evenly. Tucking the wing tips underneath will prevent them from burning.

Step 4: Prepare Vegetables (Optional)

• In a separate bowl, toss your potatoes, carrots, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place them in the roasting pan around the chicken. They’ll roast in the chicken drippings, making them extra delicious.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken

1. Place in Oven: Put the chicken (and veggies, if using) in a large roasting pan or cast-iron skillet.

2. Roast for 1 Hour: Roast the chicken for 45 minutes to 1 hour. It’s done when the skin is golden brown, and the juices run clear when you cut between the leg and thigh.

3. Check Internal Temperature: For perfect juiciness, check that the internal temperature at the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Rest the Chicken

• Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, giving you moist, flavorful meat.

Step 7: Carve and Serve

• Carve the chicken, and serve it with the roasted veggies and any pan drippings as a simple gravy.

Tips for the Perfect Roast Chicken

1. Use a Dry Brine: For extra flavor and tenderness, dry brine your chicken by seasoning it with salt and leaving it uncovered in the fridge overnight.

2. Add Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Add more fresh herbs as garnish when serving for a beautiful presentation.

3. Experiment with Flavors: Try adding different herbs and spices, like smoked paprika, oregano, or even a pinch of chili powder for a twist.

A perfectly roasted chicken is a crowd-pleaser and makes a gorgeous centerpiece. With this recipe, you’ll be able to master the art of roast chicken that’s both simple and incredibly satisfying. Serve it with your favorite side dishes, and don’t forget to save those bones for homemade stock later! Enjoy your feast.