Here’s a simple, juicy roast chicken that pairs perfectly with your broccoli salad—crispy skin, tender meat, and minimal fuss:
🍗 Classic Roast Chicken
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 1–1.5 kg)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (crushed)
- 1 lemon (halved)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
- 1 onion (quartered)
👩🍳 Instructions
- Preheat oven
200°C (about 400°F) - Prep the chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels (this helps crisp the skin). - Season generously
Rub oil or butter all over the chicken.
Mix salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs—rub it inside and outside. - Stuff for flavor
Place garlic, lemon halves, and onion inside the cavity. - Roast
Place chicken in a roasting tray (breast side up).
Roast for about 1 hour 10–20 minutes (depending on size). - Check doneness
Juices should run clear, or internal temp should reach ~75°C. - Rest before cutting
Let it rest for 10–15 minutes—this keeps it juicy.
🔥 Extra Tips for Perfection
- Baste once or twice with pan juices for extra flavor
- For crispier skin: roast uncovered and don’t overcrowd the pan
- Add potatoes and carrots to the tray for an easy side
🌿 Flavor Variations
- Garlic butter: Mix butter + garlic + parsley under the skin
- Spicy: Add chili flakes or a bit of hot sauce
- Desi-style: Use yogurt, ginger-garlic paste, cumin, coriander, and garam masala as a marinade
Want me to turn this into a full poolside meal plan with drinks and sides?
