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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as universally beloved as a perfectly roast chicken. Tender and juicy roast chicken not only serves as a centerpiece for any family dinner but also evokes a sense of warmth and nostalgia that can transform an ordinary meal into a memorable experience. From Sunday dinners to holiday feasts, the appeal of a golden-brown, succulent chicken is hard to resist. This dish is not just about taste; it represents the heart of home cooking, where flavors meld together to create something truly special.

Tender and Juicy Roast Chicken Recipe

Discover the secrets to creating a tender and juicy roast chicken that will impress your family and friends. This ultimate guide covers everything from selecting the right chicken to essential seasoning techniques and roasting methods. Learn how to use fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon to elevate the flavor, while roasting vegetables alongside for a delicious side. With easy steps and practical tips, you’ll master the art of homemade roast chicken and turn any meal into a memorable occasion.
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Ingredients
  

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)

1 lemon, halved

1 head of garlic, halved horizontally

4 sprigs of fresh rosemary

4 sprigs of fresh thyme

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 cup chicken broth (or white wine)

Fresh vegetables (carrots, potatoes, and onions for roasting, optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

    Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy skin.

      Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, kosher salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin for maximum flavor.

        Stuff the Chicken: Stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon halves, garlic halves, rosemary, and thyme. These aromatics will infuse the chicken with flavor as it roasts.

          Arrange for Roasting: If using vegetables, place them in the bottom of a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth or wine over the vegetables. Place the chicken, breast side up, on top of the vegetables.

            Roasting: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and juices run clear when pierced. Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking.

              Rest: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

                Serve: Carve the chicken and serve it alongside the roasted vegetables, drizzled with the flavorful pan juices.

                  Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 45 mins | Servings: 4-6