How long to bake a 5 lb whole chicken at 350 degrees?

A 5 lb whole chicken will take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours to bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Here's a more detailed guide:

* 1 hour and 45 minutes: This is a good estimate for a 5 lb chicken that is stuffed.

* 2 hours: This is a more conservative estimate for a 5 lb chicken that is not stuffed.

Important factors that can affect baking time:

* Chicken size and weight: Larger chickens will take longer to cook.

* Whether the chicken is stuffed: Stuffed chickens take longer to cook because the stuffing needs time to heat through.

* Oven temperature: If your oven is running hot or cold, this can affect baking time.

* Chicken thickness: A thicker chicken will take longer to cook than a thinner one.

To ensure your chicken is cooked through:

* Use a meat thermometer: Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh (not touching bone) and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

* Check for doneness: The chicken should be cooked through and the juices should run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the thigh.

Tips for baking a whole chicken:

* Pat the chicken dry: This helps the skin to crisp up.

* Season generously: Salt and pepper are essential, but you can also add other herbs and spices.

* Roast the chicken on a rack: This allows for even cooking and helps the skin to crisp up.

* Baste the chicken: Basting the chicken with pan juices helps to keep it moist.

Remember, these are just general guidelines. It's always best to check the chicken for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.