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Whole roast chicken with golden-brown crispy skin, tender meat, and caramelized vegetables in a roaster oven, surrounded by fresh rosemary and thyme sprig

Best Roast Chicken Recipe for Roaster Oven

This easy and flavorful roast chicken recipe coocked in a roaster oven yields crispy skin, juicy, meat, and a perfect golden-brown finish. A great meal for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken 4-6 lbs – Choose a fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter – Helps create a crispy golden skin while locking in moisture.
  • 1 cup chicken broth – Keeps the chicken moist during roasting and enhances the flavor.

Seasoning Blend:

  • 1 tablespoon salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a mild peppery kick.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses a rich savory taste.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder – Deepens the overall flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives the skin a beautiful golden-brown color.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary – Provides an aromatic earthy flavor.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

  • 1 lemon halved – Placing lemon inside the cavity adds a citrusy brightness.
  • 4 cloves garlic smashed – Boosts the savory depth of the chicken.
  • 1 small onion quartered – Enhances the overall richness of the broth.
  • Fresh herbs rosemary, thyme, parsley – Adds extra freshness and aroma.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Remove the giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture from the skin ensures a crisp, golden exterior when roasted.
  • If using, stuff the cavity with lemon halves, smashed garlic, onion quarters, and fresh herbs to enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

  • In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme or rosemary.
  • Rub the olive oil or melted butter all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly.
  • Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the chicken, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Roaster Oven

  • Plug in the roaster oven and set it to 375°F (190°C).
  • Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the bottom of the roaster pan to keep the chicken moist and prevent burning.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken

  • Set a rack inside the roaster oven to lift the chicken, allowing heat to circulate evenly. If you don’t have a rack, you can use a bed of sliced onions or carrots.
  • Position the chicken breast-side up on the rack. Secure the roaster oven lid to trap heat and maintain a steady cooking temperature.
  • Roast the chicken for 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on its size. A 4-6 lb chicken typically takes about 20 minutes per pound to cook through.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

  • Insert a meat thermometer into the deepest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone, to ensure it reaches a safe 165°F (75°C).
  • If needed, roast for an additional 10-15 minutes until the correct temperature is reached.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

  • Remove the chicken from the roaster oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Let the chicken rest so the juices settle evenly, ensuring tender and flavorful meat.
  • Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite sides, gravies, or dipping sauces.
Keyword Roast Chicken, Roaster Oven