Get ready to elevate your dinner game with these 20 flavorful whole chicken recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or bold international twists, we’ve got you covered. From juicy garlic herb butter roasted chickens to spicy Cajun roasted masterpieces, each recipe has been carefully crafted to showcase the versatility and deliciousness of cooking a whole chicken in the oven.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring flavors and ingredients that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. From the bright citrus notes of our Lemon Pepper Oven Roasted Whole Chicken to the rich, buttery goodness of our Garlic Parmesan Crusted Whole Chicken, every recipe is a mouthwatering excuse to fire up the oven and get cooking.
So go ahead, take a peek at these incredible whole chicken recipes, and let the flavor fest begin!
Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Whole Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter, pungency of garlic, and brightness of herbs. This show-stopping dish is perfect for special occasions or a weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme until well combined.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Pepper Oven Roasted Whole Chicken
Roast a whole chicken to perfection with a zesty lemon pepper flavor profile. This easy recipe yields a moist and aromatic bird, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and salt.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and place in a roasting pan.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Whole Chicken
This sweet and tangy glaze elevates a classic whole chicken to new heights, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously glazed bird in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and thyme until smooth.
4. Brush the glaze all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Cajun Roasted Whole Chicken
Spicy Cajun Roasted Whole Chicken Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this mouth-watering Spicy Cajun Roasted Whole Chicken recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Whole Chicken with Potatoes
This recipe combines the bold flavors of rosemary and garlic with a classic whole chicken dish, served alongside tender potatoes. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, butter, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them around the chicken during the last 20-25 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Whole Chicken with Vegetables
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering balsamic glazed whole chicken recipe, served alongside a medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Assorted vegetables (e.g., Brussels sprouts, carrots, red bell peppers, potatoes)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them around the chicken.
9. Return to the oven and roast for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
Greek Style Lemon Oregano Roasted Chicken
A classic Greek-inspired dish that combines the bright flavors of lemon and oregano with tender roasted chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Paprika and Garlic Whole Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this smoky and savory whole chicken recipe, infused with the deep flavors of paprika and garlic. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Orange and Thyme Roasted Whole Chicken
Elevate your roasted chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of orange zest with the earthy warmth of thyme. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 2 oranges, zested and juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together orange zest, juice, olive oil, and chopped thyme.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Dijon Whole Chicken with Carrots
This sweet and savory dish is a perfect combination of flavors, featuring a crispy-skinned chicken glazed with maple syrup and Dijon mustard. Paired with tender carrots, it’s an ideal meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 4-5 carrots, peeled and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels. Brush the glaze all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season the carrots and onion with salt and pepper. Toss them in a separate bowl.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and surround it with the carrot mixture. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the carrots are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto Stuffed Whole Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this show-stopping main course! A flavorful pesto filling and juicy cherry tomatoes add a pop of color to this impressive whole chicken dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 lb) whole chicken
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix pesto and olive oil. Stuff the mixture inside the chicken cavity.
4. Place cherry tomatoes on top of the chicken breast, slightly apart from each other.
5. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Asian Soy Ginger Roasted Whole Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful roasted whole chicken infused with the aromas of Asia. This recipe combines the savory goodness of soy sauce, the spiciness of ginger, and the comfort of a juicy, crispy-skinned bird.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, ginger, sesame oil, and garlic powder.
3. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels. Place in a roasting pan.
4. Brush the chicken evenly with the soy-ginger mixture, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Crusted Whole Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Crusted Whole Chicken recipe, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the garlic-Parmesan mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herbed Whole Chicken with Lemon and Onions
This flavorful and aromatic chicken dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner. The combination of herbs, lemon, and caramelized onions creates a deliciously moist and savory whole chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 lemon, quartered
– 1 large onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Stuff the cavity with lemon quarters and onion slices.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Spiced Whole Chicken with Sweet Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the flavors of BBQ and sweet potatoes with a perfectly roasted whole chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the whole chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. About 20-25 minutes into cooking, add the sweet potato cubes to the roasting pan and toss with a little bit of oil and salt.
6. Once the chicken is cooked, brush it with BBQ sauce and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 25 minutes
Crispy Skin Whole Chicken with Herbs de Provence
Transform a whole chicken into a golden-brown masterpiece, infused with the classic flavors of Herbs de Provence. This recipe yields a crispy-skinned, juicy, and aromatic bird perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp Herbs de Provence
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 lemon, quartered
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, Herbs de Provence, salt, and black pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the quartered lemon inside the cavity of the chicken.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Baste the chicken with pan juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist and promote crisp skin.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chili Lime Roasted Whole Chicken
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chili powder and lime juice to create a mouthwatering roasted whole chicken that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Squeeze lime juice over the chicken, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Whole Chicken with Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and savory recipe featuring a whole chicken smothered in garlic butter and served with sautéed mushrooms. This impressive main course is perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the garlic butter mixture.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
7. Serve the chicken with sautéed mushrooms alongside.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mediterranean Style Whole Chicken with Olives
Mediterranean Style Whole Chicken with Olives Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic whole chicken dish, infused with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, olives, rosemary, and oregano.
4. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brown Sugar and Mustard Glazed Whole Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple yet impressive brown sugar and mustard glazed whole chicken recipe. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors will surely become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush the glaze all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Elevate your cooking game with these 20 flavorful whole chicken recipes, all oven-roasted to perfection! From classic garlic herb butter to spicy Cajun and sweet maple Dijon, there’s something for every taste bud. Try rosemary garlic with potatoes, balsamic glazed with veggies, or Greek-style lemon oregano for a Mediterranean twist. Or go bold with smoky paprika and garlic, chili lime, or BBQ spiced with sweet potatoes. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or an impressive special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to please.
