Roasted Chicken | Crispy Outside, Juicy Inside & Easy to Make

There’s nothing quite like a beautifully roasted chicken, golden, crispy skin on the outside and tender, juicy meat inside. This Roast Chicken Recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests. With just a few pantry staples and simple steps, you can create a delicious, comforting meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aroma and warmth.

Table of Contents

Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 lemon, halved
4 garlic cloves, smashed
Fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or parsley)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a perfectly crispy skin.

Step 2. Prepare the Chicken:

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, this step helps the skin become crispy.

Step 3. Season Generously:

Rub the chicken all over with olive oil or butter, then sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika evenly.

Step 4. Stuff for Flavour:

Fill the cavity with lemon halves, smashed garlic, and herbs. This infuses the meat with fresh aroma and taste.

Step 5. Roast to Perfection:

Place the chicken breast side up in a roasting pan. Roast for about 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6. Rest Before Serving:

Let the chicken rest for 10–15 minutes before carving. This keeps the juices inside, making every bite tender.

Tips & Variations

For extra crispy skin, brush with butter halfway through roasting.
Add vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, and onions) around the chicken for a one pan meal.
Try adding honey and mustard to the seasoning for a sweet and tangy twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your roast chicken with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a simple side salad. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the pan juices over the meat for added flavour!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	420
Protein	36g
Fat	28g
Carbohydrates	2g
Fiber	0g
Sugar	0g
Cholesterol	120mg
Sodium	420mg

Final Thoughts

This Roast Chicken Recipe is a timeless classic that never disappoints crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavour. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner or a festive occasion, it’s the kind of meal everyone will gather around and love.