How long do you cook a 7.7 lb whole chicken?

To cook a 7.7 lb whole chicken, you will need to roast it in the oven at 350°F for approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Here's a detailed guide to cooking a 7.7 lb whole chicken:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the chicken by rinsing it inside and out with cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.

3. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. You can also add some butter or olive oil to the skin for extra flavor.

4. Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan. Add some chopped vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery to the pan for extra flavor.

5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and shape of the chicken.

6. To check if the chicken is cooked, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh (without touching the bone). The internal temperature should read 165°F.

7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Here are some additional tips for cooking a whole chicken:

- If you want the skin to be crispy, let the chicken rest uncovered in the fridge for 30 minutes to 1 hour before cooking.

- You can also add a little bit of baking powder to the seasoning mixture to help the skin crisp up.

- Check the internal temperature of the chicken at multiple locations to ensure it's cooked evenly.

- If the chicken starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.