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Juicy Roasted Half Chicken with Herbs and Butter Recipe

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3.9 from 55 reviews

This Roasted Half Chicken recipe delivers a perfectly golden and crispy skin with juicy, tender meat inside. Using simple ingredients like butter, olive oil, garlic powder, and dried thyme, this dish is a flavorful and classic take on a comforting roasted chicken that's ideal for an easy weeknight dinner or a special family meal.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 (4-pound) whole chicken or 2 (2-pound) chicken halves

Seasonings and Fats

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it's hot enough to create a crispy skin on the chicken.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken halves dry with paper towels to remove moisture. This step is crucial for crisp skin.
  3. Season: Rub the chicken all over with olive oil and melted butter. Then season generously with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
  4. Roast: Place the chicken halves skin side up on a roasting pan or baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
  5. Rest: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and flavorful meat.
  6. Serve: Carve the chicken halves and serve warm, pairing with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Using chicken halves instead of a whole chicken cuts down on cooking time and makes for easier handling.
  • Kosher salt is recommended for seasoning because of its coarser grain, which enhances flavor better than table salt.
  • Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
  • Optional: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.