Easiest Roast Chicken Recipe Ever
Introduction
Inspired by the effortless genius of Judy Montagu’s bi-weekly recipe column in the Jerusalem Post, this roast chicken recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Originating from Barry Nester and with a nod to Shoshana Feldman, this dish promises an easy, delectable, and satisfying meal. Perfect for any day of the week, this recipe requires minimal preparation and yields a beautifully roasted chicken with crisp skin and juicy meat.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 4 tablespoons salt
Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will ensure that the skin of the chicken gets crispy and delicious.
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Prepare the Baking Pan: Select a square or rectangular baking pan. Place the whole chicken in the center of the pan, breast side up. Make sure the chicken is positioned in the middle to ensure even cooking.
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Add Salt: Sprinkle a tablespoon of salt in each corner of the pan. Be careful not to let the salt come into direct contact with the chicken. The salt helps to create a barrier that flavors the chicken and draws out any excess moisture, ensuring a crispy skin.
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Roast the Chicken: Place the pan in the preheated oven. Roast the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 1 hour. This initial high-temperature roasting helps to seal in the juices and crisp up the skin.
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Adjust the Temperature: After the first hour, you may notice some smoke – this is normal and part of the cooking process. Lower the oven temperature slightly and continue roasting for an additional 20-30 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through completely without drying out.
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Do Not Turn or Baste: There’s no need to turn the chicken or baste it during cooking. The skin will become beautifully crisp and the meat will remain juicy thanks to the unique cooking method.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This resting period helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender and flavorful.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 329.7
- Fat: 23.1 grams
- Saturated Fat: 6.6 grams
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
- Sodium: 4758.3 mg
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugar: 0 grams
- Protein: 28.5 grams
Serving Suggestions
This roast chicken pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side dishes. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or used in various recipes like chicken salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this easy roast chicken recipe – a true winner in every sense!