Description
This Easy Roast Chicken recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to roast a whole chicken with minimal ingredients. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or meal prepping, this recipe uses just three ingredients—chicken, olive oil, and Italian seasoning—for a juicy, tender roast. With easy-to-follow steps and versatile seasoning options, you’ll have a delicious chicken dish ready in just over an hour.
Ingredients
- 1 (4 to 5-pound) whole chicken, giblets removed
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and position the baking rack in the lower third. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and allow it to come to room temperature.
- Season the Chicken: Place the chicken breast-side up in an oven-safe pan (a cast-iron skillet is recommended). Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, ensuring an even coat. Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, pressing the seasonings into the skin.
- Roast: Place the chicken in the oven and roast for 70 to 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh. If the skin darkens too quickly, tent the chicken with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of roasting.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving, allowing the juices to redistribute.
Notes
- Seasoning Variations: Experiment with different herb blends such as rosemary, thyme, or a Cajun spice mix to personalize the flavor.
- Vegetable Addition: Add chopped vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes to the pan for a complete one-pan meal.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 to 90 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
