Crispy Oven-Roasted Chicken with Herbs
Crispy Oven-Roasted Chicken with Herbs is a timeless recipe enjoyed by families around the world. Long before modern shortcuts, roasting a whole chicken in the oven was the traditional way to prepare a hearty, flavorful meal. The secret has always been simple: good seasoning, fresh herbs, and patience.
This recipe follows the old-fashioned method, producing a chicken with golden, crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. It’s perfect for Sunday lunches, family dinners, or any occasion when comfort food is needed.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 1.8–2 kg / 4–4.5 lb)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
How to Make Crispy Oven-Roasted Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 20 minutes before cooking. Pat it completely dry with paper towels. Dry skin is essential for crispiness — a traditional trick used for generations.
Step 2: Season Generously
In a small bowl, mix olive oil (or butter), garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin when possible.
Stuff the cavity with lemon halves and onion quarters. This adds aroma and moisture without softening the skin.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F). High heat at the beginning helps render the fat and crisp the skin.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken
Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting pan or baking dish. Roast uncovered for 20 minutes at high heat.
Reduce the temperature to 190°C (375°F) and continue roasting for another 45–55 minutes, basting once halfway through.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. Resting keeps the juices inside the meat.
Tips for Extra Crispy Skin
- Always dry the chicken thoroughly
- Do not overcrowd the pan
- Avoid covering the chicken while roasting
- High heat at the start is essential
These are old kitchen secrets that never fail.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy Oven-Roasted Chicken pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted potatoes or vegetables
- White rice or mashed potatoes
- Fresh green salad
- Simple gravy made from pan drippings
Perfect for lunch or dinner.
Why This Recipe Is a Classic
Roast chicken is loved because it’s simple, affordable, and satisfying. It uses everyday ingredients and delivers rich flavor without complexity. It’s comfort food at its finest.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.