Whole chicken in the oven

Whole roasted chicken – a simple yet flavorful recipe that transforms an ordinary meal into an unforgettable culinary experience. This dish, with a long history, has been cooked by generations around the world, bringing family and friends together around the table. Whether you're preparing for a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a delicious dish, this oven-roasted chicken recipe is sure to be a hit.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 50 g butter (melted)
- 1 head of garlic
- Spices:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Preparing the whole roasted chicken:
1. Start by preheating the oven to 190°C. This is the ideal temperature to achieve a golden and juicy chicken.

2. Prepare the chicken: make sure it is completely thawed (if you bought it frozen), then rinse it under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy skin.

3. In a small bowl, melt the butter. Once melted, add all the spices: salt, pepper, ginger, thyme, and rosemary. Mix well to get a uniform blend.

4. Using a sharp knife, make cuts on the chicken in several places, on the breast, thighs, and back. These cuts will help the flavors penetrate and make the meat more tender.

5. Take the head of garlic and open it, separating the cloves. There's no need to peel them; insert one clove of garlic into each cut on the chicken. The garlic will add extra flavor and infuse the meat while roasting.

6. Use a basting brush to coat the chicken with the butter and spice mixture. Make sure to cover it well, both inside and out. This will create a delicious and aromatic crust on the chicken.

7. Place the chicken on a baking tray, breast side up. It's recommended to use a tray with higher edges to avoid any grease splatters in the oven.

8. Put the chicken in the oven and let it roast for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. It's important to check it from time to time; if the skin gets too brown, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

9. The chicken is done when the meat easily pulls away from the bones, and the juices that run out are clear. A simple method to check is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature of the chicken should be 75°C.

10. Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This step is essential to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each serving is juicy.

Serving:
Serve the chicken alongside delicious sides, such as roasted potatoes or sautéed vegetables. A fresh salad can add a pleasant contrast and a note of freshness. Don't forget to save a few roasted garlic cloves to add to the table – they are absolutely delicious!

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for tissue development and repair. The spices used not only provide exceptional flavor but also have health benefits, from anti-inflammatory effects to improving digestion.

Variations:
- You can add a bottle of white wine to the tray to create a wonderful sauce to serve alongside the chicken.
- Replace garlic with onion or add lemon slices inside the chicken for a pleasant citrus flavor.
- Experiment with different combinations of herbs, such as oregano or basil, to customize the recipe to your taste.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use a frozen chicken? It is recommended to thaw the chicken beforehand to ensure even cooking.
- What should I do if the chicken isn't browning enough? You can turn on the grill function of the oven in the last few minutes of cooking to achieve a more golden crust.
- What sides go best with it? Mashed potatoes, rice, or grilled vegetables are excellent options that perfectly complement this dish.

This whole roasted chicken is not just a recipe, but a way to bring family and friends to the table, to share moments of joy, and to savor every bite. So, put on your chef's apron and get ready to lick your fingers!