Easy Oven Roasted Chicken (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Chicken

01 - 1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs)
02 - 3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
03 - 1 teaspoon salt
04 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 1 teaspoon paprika
08 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or rosemary)
09 - ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
10 - 1 lemon, quartered
11 - 4 cloves garlic, smashed

→ For Extra Flavor (Optional)

12 - 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary)
13 - 1 onion, quartered
14 - 1 cup chicken broth (for roasting pan)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a rack in a roasting pan or line a baking dish with foil.
02 - Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil (or melted butter) all over the chicken, including under the skin. In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, and lemon zest. Sprinkle seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.
03 - Stuff the cavity with lemon wedges, smashed garlic, and fresh herbs for extra flavor. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine for even cooking.
04 - Place chicken breast-side up on the rack in the roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep it moist. Roast uncovered for 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste with pan juices halfway through for extra crispiness.
05 - Let chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

# Notes:

01 - For extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 3-5 minutes.
02 - Let the chicken rest before cutting to keep the juices in.