Spiced roasted chicken is a flavorful and aromatic dish perfect for a hearty family meal or a special occasion. This recipe involves marinating the chicken with a blend of spices and then roasting it to achieve a crispy, golden exterior and juicy, tender meat. Let’s get started on making this delicious roasted chicken!
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, halved
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley) for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Clean and Dry: Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Ensure the chicken is completely dry to help the skin get crispy during roasting.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Make the Spice Rub
- Combine Spices: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.
- Add Olive Oil and Garlic: Mix in the olive oil and minced garlic to form a paste.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
- Rub the Chicken: Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor.
- Add Lemon: Place the halved lemon inside the cavity of the chicken. This adds flavor and helps keep the chicken moist.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken
- Place in Roasting Pan: Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up.
- Roast: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (not touching the bone).
- Baste Occasionally: Baste the chicken with the juices from the pan every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot. Enjoy your spiced roasted chicken with your favorite sides.
Cooking Notes
- Spices: Adjust the spices to your taste. You can add more cayenne pepper for extra heat or reduce it if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Marinating: For even more flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the spice rub for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Crispy Skin: Make sure the chicken is dry before applying the spice rub to achieve a crispy skin. Roasting at a higher initial temperature and then reducing the heat can also help crisp the skin.
Variations
- Herb Butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic, fresh herbs, and lemon zest. Rub this mixture under the skin of the chicken before applying the spice rub for an extra layer of flavor.
- Vegetable Bed: Roast the chicken on a bed of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions. The vegetables will absorb the flavorful juices from the chicken as it cooks.
Keto Version
This recipe is naturally keto-friendly. Pair the spiced roasted chicken with keto-friendly sides like roasted Brussels sprouts, cauliflower mash, or a fresh green salad.
Low Carb Version
Serve the roasted chicken with low-carb vegetables and salads to keep the meal light and healthy. You can also make a low-carb gravy using the pan drippings and a thickener like xanthan gum.
Spiced roasted chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of spices creates a deliciously aromatic and tasty meal that’s sure to impress. With minimal preparation and easy roasting, this recipe is a great addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with family and friends. Happy cooking!
