How long and at what temperature should you bake a whole chicken by the pound?

The baking time and temperature for a whole chicken depend on its weight. Here's a general guideline:

Temperature:

* 325°F (160°C) is the recommended temperature for baking a whole chicken. This allows for even cooking and helps keep the chicken juicy.

Baking Time:

* 15-20 minutes per pound: This is a good starting point. For a 4-pound chicken, you would bake it for 1 hour.

Important Notes:

* Internal Temperature: The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. You can use a meat thermometer to check this.

* Resting Time: After baking, let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

* Adjusting Time: The baking time can vary depending on the size and shape of the chicken, as well as your oven. If you're unsure, it's always better to err on the side of longer baking time.

* Stuffing: If you're stuffing the chicken, bake it for an additional 30 minutes.

Example:

* 3-pound chicken: 45-60 minutes

* 4-pound chicken: 1 hour

* 5-pound chicken: 1 hour 15 minutes - 1 hour 30 minutes

Tip: For a crispy skin, you can roast the chicken uncovered. However, if you prefer a moister chicken, cover it loosely with foil for the first part of the baking time, then remove the foil for the last 30 minutes to allow the skin to crisp up.