How do you cook roast chicken?

How to Cook a Perfect Roast Chicken:

Ingredients:

* 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)

* Salt and pepper

* Optional: herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage), garlic, butter, lemon, vegetables

Equipment:

* Roasting pan

* Meat thermometer

* Tongs or spatula

Instructions:

1. Prep the Chicken:

* Pat dry: Rinse the chicken inside and out, then pat it dry with paper towels.

* Season: Rub the chicken generously with salt and pepper.

* Optional: Stuffing: If desired, stuff the chicken with herbs, garlic, lemon slices, or vegetables.

* Optional: Truss: To keep the chicken compact, tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings behind the back.

2. Roasting:

* Preheat oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).

* Place in pan: Place the chicken in a roasting pan.

* Roast: Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

* Optional: Basting: For extra flavor, you can baste the chicken every 30 minutes with melted butter or pan drippings.

3. Rest & Serve:

* Rest: Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

* Carve: Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips for Roasting a Juicy Chicken:

* Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure the chicken has enough room to cook evenly.

* Avoid overcooking: Overcooked chicken can be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked to the right temperature.

* Use a roasting rack: This elevates the chicken, allowing air to circulate and resulting in crispier skin.

* Add aromatics: Including aromatics like herbs, garlic, or onions in the roasting pan will infuse the chicken with flavor.

Enjoy your delicious roast chicken!