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Saturday, August 6, 2011

So Simple, So Perfect, Crispy Roast Chicken

 (I've had this sitting in draft for a few days.  However, I had a slight interruption...my precious, new baby granddaughter was welcomed into the world on August 2nd!)

Craving some protein?  Make it on Sunday and have it for leftovers during the week...a salad, a sandwich or just more delicious roast chicken.  That wing or leg will haunt you for a late night snack!

Roast chicken just doesn't get any better or any easier than this!  After much experimenting over the years, I came to this simple method for a classic and delicious roast chicken.  No need to stuff or truss!  Roasters are not as dry as baking chickens; all they need is a little seasoning...not even any butter or oil!  Follow this recipe and I guarantee you a succulent roast chicken with a crispy exterior!
                               
The aroma of a chicken roasting in the oven just seems to say:
                              
                                              "Welcome Home!"


                                    Salivating?  Let's Cut Into It...

Serves 4 or more

Ingredients
  • 1 plump roasting chicken (about 4 to 5 lbs.)
  • garlic powder
  • kosher salt
  • freshly ground black pepper
  • dried thyme leaves
  • dried rosemary leaves

Directions
  1. Preheat oven to 375º.
  2. Place a rack in a shallow roasting (or baking) pan which you've lined w/foil.*
  3. Wash the chicken and remove any fat,* neck or giblets from the inside.
  4. Pat the chicken dry and place it breast up on the rack in the pan.
  5. Sprinkle the inside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
  6. Sprinkle all the seasonings on the top of the chicken.
  7. Place in the oven and roast uncovered about 30 minutes per lb. or until a drumstick moves easily at the joint and the juices run clear, or the chicken registers at least 180º when a thermometer is inserted.  (Check after about 1 to 1 1/2 hours and if already golden brown, loosely cover with a tent of foil to keep from over browning.)

*Tips 
  • You can save any fat for schmaltz, see:  "The Schmaltz" under "Bon Bon's Chicken Soup with Matzo Balls".  
  • Over the years, I've used so many different configurations of a roasting pan for this chicken.  Generally I use whatever is handy.  I've even used a toaster-oven rack in a baking pan.  You really don't need anything fancy...just a rack and a pan! (This note is especially for those who don't own a lot of equipment or are just starting out in the kitchen).  However, if you happen to have an impressive roasting pan and rack, enjoy it!
  • My Not Just White Chicken Chili would be great for using leftover chicken breast from this roast!

Let the chicken rest a few minutes before slicing. (I prefer an electric knife to achieve attractive slices.) You'll feel like Mama just wrapped her arms around you while you enjoy this with your favorite sides!*

*Suggested Sides:
My Simple Side Salad with Avocado and Satisfying Spatzle Casserole with Swiss Cheese; Sweet Potato Casserole with Crunchy Nut Topping or Yellow Summer Squash Casserole.

Printable Recipe

8 comments:

  1. Your chicken sounds so wonderful! Congrats on your new granddaughter!

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  2. @Dulce Dough - Hi Jill! Oh, it's so good. Obviously I prefer my chicken on the crispy side...that's why I omit trussing, allowing every piece to get brown and crispy!

    Thanks! I'm thrilled to be helping out with the new baby girl and my grandson for a while. Blogging is already a challenge, now will be even more so.

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  3. My dear! Congratulations on the new baby! What a precious gift. And thank you for sharing this delicious recipe. This was perfect lunch-reading-material. I only wish I could have had a bite! I hope you have a lovely evening.

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  4. @Monet - Thanks so much...she's just an angel! She has long, skinny legs I think like my sister and long, prissy fingers and hands(I think like me). Hope you try the chicken!

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  5. Bonnie, this looks like the perfect roast chicken. I LOVE the crispy skin! And congratulations on the sweet new granddaughter <3

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  6. @Lizzy - I'd glad you were impressed with the chicken...please roast one sometime--it's so easy! We're really enjoying the new baby girl, and she's so easy (just like the chicken)!

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  7. I'm definitely salivating. I love your simple spices and the skin looks just perfect. I love roast chicken!

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  8. @Bake Your Day - Thanks Cassie! I think most anyone would find these spices in their pantry. Roast chicken should please most any guest!

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