Juicy Roast Chicken

Nothing brings the boys to the yard family to the table faster than my roasted chicken. It smells up the house in all kinds of deliciousness. Roasted chicken smells like a big momma hug...eh, that made sense in my head!

 

When I entertain folks at the crib for the first time, roasted chicken is my go to dish. I keep the spices simple, salt pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika olive oil. Yessir! The great thing about roasting an entire bird is that you can switch up the spices, add fresh herbs under the skin, stuff citrus in the cavity...it is versatile! Also if there are any leftovers, chicken sandwiches, soups, or chicken salad. Slow and low that is the tempo when cooking a whole bird in my opinion!  Keep in mind you will have to adjust your cook time to the size bird you buy. These instructions are for a small chicken NOT a roasting hen.

Happy Cooking

 

Juicy Roast Chicken
 
What You Will Need:

• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika to taste
• 3-4 Tbsp Olive Oil (or whatever cooking oil you have on hand)
• 5-7lb Chicken

What To Do:

• Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
• Mix spices and olive oil. You should make enough to cover the entire bird really well. Set aside.
• Rinse chicken and pat dry. Don’t forget to remove the innards!
• Gently lift the skin from the breast and rub some of the mixture directly on the breast meat.
• Rub remaining mixture all over the chicken.
• Roast on a sheet pan for 1 to 1.5 hours or until juices run clear
• Be sure to let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after you remove it from the oven so all of the juices can redistribute!

Variations:
Place crushed garlic under the skin
Instead of olive oil use unsalted butter
Place fresh herbs underneath the skin
Place lemons and/or limes and/or oranges in the cavity for a different flavor
Hope you enjoy!