What are the full instructions for baking a whole chicken?

Baking a Whole Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

What you'll need:

* 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)

* Salt and pepper

* Herbs and spices (optional): Rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, etc.

* Butter or olive oil

* Lemon or orange (optional)

* Vegetables (optional): Potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, etc.

* Baking dish or roasting pan

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken:

* Rinse the chicken inside and out with cold water. Pat dry thoroughly.

* Remove any giblets or neck from the cavity.

* Season the chicken: Rub salt and pepper generously all over the skin and inside the cavity. Add your chosen herbs and spices.

* Stuff the cavity (optional): If desired, stuff the cavity with lemon slices, orange slices, or a mixture of herbs and vegetables.

* Tie the legs together: Use kitchen twine to tie the chicken legs together. This will help the chicken cook evenly and prevent the legs from drying out.

2. Prepare the baking dish:

* Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

* Grease a baking dish or roasting pan with butter or olive oil.

* Place the chicken in the dish: Put the chicken breast-side up in the prepared dish.

3. Roast the chicken:

* Roast for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

* Basting: To keep the chicken moist, baste it with pan juices every 30 minutes. You can also add butter, olive oil, or broth to the pan for additional moisture.

* Check for doneness: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh (avoiding bone). If the temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), the chicken is cooked through.

4. Rest the chicken:

* Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and juicy chicken.

5. Serve the chicken:

* Carve the chicken into pieces and serve it with your favorite sides.

Tips:

* Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

* Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're roasting multiple chickens, make sure there's enough space between them so they cook evenly.

* Add vegetables: Surround the chicken with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, onions, and celery for a complete one-pan meal.

* Save the pan juices: The pan juices can be used to make gravy.

Enjoy your delicious, home-baked chicken!