Description
Ingredients
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 lemon, halved
– 4 garlic cloves, smashed
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the outside with olive oil and the inside cavity with the melted butter.
3. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Generously rub the spice blend all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible.
4. Stuff the cavity with the lemon halves and smashed garlic cloves.
5. Place the chicken breast-side up in a cast iron skillet or roasting pan. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine for even cooking.
6. Roast the chicken in the oven for 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured in the thickest part of the thigh.
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Notes
**Tip:** Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
**Pro Cooking Tip:** Basting the chicken with its pan juices every 20-30 minutes during roasting will ensure extra moist and flavorful meat.