How to Make the Best Roasted Chicken: Tips and Variations

Roasting a chicken is one of those classic meals that always hits the spot. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just fancy a proper meal, roasted chicken is a great choice. The best bit? It’s easier than you think! With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a delicious, crispy-skinned chicken that’s juicy and full of flavour.

Let’s get started with this easy roasted chicken recipe that’s sure to be a winner at your table.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 1.8 to 2.3 kg)
3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra colour)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme or mixed herbs
1 lemon, cut in half
1 whole garlic bulb, cut in half horizontally
A few sprigs of fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or parsley) for garnish

Equipment Needed

Roasting pan or baking dish
Roasting rack (optional, but helps with even cooking)
Meat thermometer (to check doneness)
Kitchen twine (for tying the chicken legs together)
Sharp knife (for carving)
Chopping board
Basting brush (optional, for brushing oil or butter)

Roasted Chicken Recipe – Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) or gas mark 7.
Remove the giblets from the chicken cavity if present, and pat the chicken dry with kitchen paper. Drying the chicken helps the skin to get nice and crispy.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Place the chicken on a chopping board and rub it all over with olive oil or melted butter, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies.
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme or mixed herbs.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken, including inside the cavity for extra flavour.
Stuff the cavity with the lemon halves, garlic halves, and a few sprigs of fresh herbs.

Step 3: Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan or baking dish. If you don’t have a rack, you can place the chicken directly in the pan.
Tie the chicken legs together with kitchen twine to help the chicken cook evenly and keep the stuffing inside.
Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the juices run clear when you cut between the leg and thigh, and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). Check the temperature with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to settle, making the meat more tender and flavourful.
Carve the chicken into pieces and serve with your favourite sides, like roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a fresh salad.

How Long Does a Roast Chicken Take to Cook?

Cooking time for a roast chicken depends on the size of the bird. A good rule of thumb is to roast the chicken for about 20 minutes per 500 grams (1 pound) at 220°C (200°C fan) or gas mark 7.

Here’s a simple guide to help you estimate the cooking time:

1.5 kg chicken: Roast for about 1 hour
2 kg chicken: Roast for about 1 hour and 20 minutes
2.5 kg chicken: Roast for about 1 hour and 40 minutes

Always check the doneness with a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the juices run clear when you cut between the leg and thigh.

Letting the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes after roasting helps keep the meat juicy and makes it easier to carve.

Tips for Success

Dry the Chicken Well: Patting the chicken dry with kitchen paper before seasoning helps the skin to crisp up nicely during roasting.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! A well-seasoned chicken means flavourful meat and a deliciously crispy skin.
Truss the Chicken: Tying the legs together with kitchen twine helps the chicken cook evenly and keeps the stuffing in place. If you don’t have twine, tuck the legs into the body to keep everything secure.
Use a Meat Thermometer: The most reliable way to know if your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Aim for 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the thigh. This ensures the meat is safe to eat and not overcooked.
Let It Rest: After roasting, let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and easier to carve.
Baste for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy skin, baste the chicken with its own juices halfway through cooking. This adds more flavour and keeps the skin from drying out.
Adjust the Cooking Time for Size: Remember, cooking times vary based on the size of your chicken. Always check doneness rather than relying solely on the clock.
Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Give the chicken space in the roasting pan for the heat to circulate evenly. If you’re roasting vegetables alongside, make sure they don’t cover the chicken completely.

Variations

Herb and Lemon Chicken: Add a burst of fresh flavour by using a mix of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Rub the chicken with olive oil, then sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice before roasting.
Garlic and Herb Butter Chicken: For a richer taste, make a garlic and herb butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and thyme. Spread the butter under the skin of the chicken breasts and on top for extra flavour and a golden, crispy finish.
Spicy Roasted Chicken: If you like a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of chilli powder or cayenne pepper to your seasoning mix. You can also rub the chicken with a bit of harissa paste or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Honey and Mustard Chicken: For a sweet and tangy twist, mix 2 tablespoons of honey with 1 tablespoon of mustard and brush it over the chicken before roasting. This creates a lovely caramelised glaze on the skin.
Mediterranean Style: Give your chicken a Mediterranean flair by seasoning it with oregano, garlic, and lemon. Add a few olives and cherry tomatoes to the roasting pan for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavour.
Stuffed Chicken: For a heartier meal, stuff the chicken cavity with a mixture of bread crumbs, chopped herbs, sautéed onions, and a bit of chicken stock. This adds extra flavour and makes for a delicious side dish.
Citrus and Herb Chicken: Use a mix of oranges, lemons, and limes in the cavity for a zesty and fragrant roast. The citrus juices will infuse the chicken, giving it a fresh and tangy taste.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Roast Dinner: Serve your roasted chicken with traditional sides like roast potatoes, steamed vegetables, and gravy. Add a Yorkshire pudding for a true Sunday roast experience.
Fresh Salad Pairing: For a lighter meal, pair your roasted chicken with a crisp green salad. A simple mix of lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the chicken perfectly.
With Roasted Vegetables: Roast some vegetables alongside the chicken, such as carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts. The veggies will soak up the chicken’s juices, making them extra tasty.
Rice or Couscous: Serve the chicken with fluffy rice or couscous for a simple and satisfying side. Add some chopped herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the dish.
Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: A comforting choice, mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with the juicy chicken and its drippings. Don’t forget to drizzle with plenty of gravy!
Pasta Salad: For a bit of a twist, try serving the chicken with a pasta salad. A mix of pasta, chopped vegetables, and a light dressing makes a great side that’s perfect for warmer days.
Crusty Bread: Keep it simple with some crusty bread on the side to soak up all the delicious juices from the chicken. A herbed butter or garlic bread makes a lovely addition.
Sauces and Condiments: Offer a variety of sauces, like garlic aioli, mustard, or a tangy BBQ sauce, to let everyone customise their meal. A fresh salsa or chimichurri also adds a nice zing.
Leftovers: Don’t let any leftovers go to waste! Use the remaining chicken in sandwiches, salads, or even as a topping for pizzas and pastas.

Conclusion

Roasting a chicken is a simple yet rewarding way to create a delicious meal that brings people together. With its crispy skin and juicy, flavourful meat, this roasted chicken recipe is sure to become a favourite in your kitchen. Whether you stick to the classic approach or try out some of the tasty variations, you’ll have a dish that’s perfect for any occasion. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the satisfying aroma of a home-cooked roast. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your roasted chicken creations with friends and family—they’re sure to be impressed!