How to Make the Perfect Juicy Roasted Chicken Every Time

How to make a juicy roasted chicken in the oven every time? Simple ingredients, perfect temperature, and expert tips to keep your chicken tender

Juicy Roasted Chicken is a classic recipe that guarantees tender, flavorful meat with perfectly crispy skin. By following a few simple steps, including proper seasoning, butter under the skin, and roasting at the right temperature, you can achieve a perfectly juicy chicken every time. This dish is ideal for a comforting family dinner or a weekend meal, offering a delicious balance of juicy meat and golden-brown skin. With careful preparation and resting after roasting, each bite is packed with rich flavor and moisture, making it one of the most satisfying and reliable roasted chicken recipes you can master.

Ingredients 

1 (3‑pound) whole chicken, giblets removed

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon onion powder, or to taste

½ cup butter

1 stalk celery, leaves removed

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the chicken by removing giblets and patting it dry.

Season generously inside and out with salt, black pepper, and onion powder.

Stuff the cavity with celery for flavor.

Spread butter under the skin for extra juiciness.

Tie the legs and tuck the wings for even cooking.

Roast uncovered for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, until the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).

Baste occasionally to maintain moisture.

Rest the chicken 10–15 minutes before carving.

Carve and serve with your favorite sides.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

Recipe Category: Main Dish / Dinner

Cuisine: American

Tips & Variations

Here are some tips and variations to elevate your Juicy Roasted Chicken. For extra flavor, rub the chicken with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage before roasting. Adding lemon slices or garlic cloves inside the cavity creates a fragrant aroma. Using a meat thermometer ensures perfectly cooked meat without drying it out. Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or your favorite sides. Always let the chicken rest 10–15 minutes before carving to retain juiciness. These small tweaks make a big difference and give you a restaurant-quality dish at home.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even simple recipes can fail if common mistakes aren’t avoided. Skip patting the chicken dry, and the skin will be soggy. Under-seasoning leads to bland meat. Overcooking is another pitfall—use a thermometer to ensure 165°F (74°C) internally. Carving too soon lets the juices escape, leaving dry meat. Avoid these errors to consistently make juicy, flavorful roasted chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long should I roast a whole chicken?

Roast a 3-pound chicken for about 1 hour and 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).

Q2: How do I keep roasted chicken juicy?

Pat the chicken dry, season well, add butter under the skin, and let it rest after roasting.

Q3: What temperature should the chicken reach?

The thickest part of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Q4: Can I add vegetables while roasting?

Yes, root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions roast well alongside the chicken.

Q5: How long should the . rest before carving?

Let it rest 10–15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.