Every-Week Roast Chicken
Five minutes of prep and an hour of doing nothing results in the most delicious roast chicken dinner, plus plenty of leftovers to use in soups, sandwiches, and more in the days that follow. Give this easy recipe a try and reap the rewards.
Gallery
Ingredients
Directions
Cook's Notes
Tips for the Best Bird:
To ensure fast, even cooking, let chicken stand at room temperature for an hour before roasting. The low sides of a rimmed baking sheet allow steam to escape, so skin will be crisp.
No thermometer? Don't panic. Look for golden skin, legs that feel loose when wiggled, and juices that run clear when you pierce chicken between breast and leg with the tip of a knife.
Variations
If you like, add herbs such as rosemary, thyme, savory, and oregano. Or vegetables: toss them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Scatter carrots, potatoes, and sweet potatoes around the bird at the start of cooking; add garlic, onion, lemon, and parsnips after 30 minutes.