Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly simple dinner? Look no further! This recipe for Martha Stewart's perfectly baked chicken is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times; this easy recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken every time. It's one of those healthy meals that's also incredibly satisfying, making it a staple in our household. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game? Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), patted dry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is a crucial step for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly.
Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully. Then, generously rub the olive oil all over the chicken, ensuring every inch is coated.
Season generously: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this flavorful mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin as well for extra flavor.
Stuff the cavity: Place lemon halves, rosemary, and thyme sprigs inside the chicken cavity. This adds amazing aroma and subtle citrusy notes to the chicken.
Bake to perfection: Place the chicken in a roasting pan and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C). The internal temperature is key to ensuring the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Carve and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure enough space around the chicken for even browning.
- Basting is key: For extra juicy chicken, baste the chicken with pan juices every 20 minutes during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. Avoid undercooked chicken!
Variations:
- Herbs de Provence: Substitute the rosemary and thyme with 1 tablespoon of Herbs de Provence for a different flavor profile.
- Lemon Herb Butter: Create a compound butter by mixing softened butter with lemon zest, garlic, and herbs before rubbing it under the skin.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add your favorite root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or parsnips to the roasting pan for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the chicken and serving size. However, a general estimate per serving is:
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-25g
This quick dinner idea is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a delicious and healthy homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this Martha Stewart-inspired baked chicken recipe is a prime example of that. It's a foolproof recipe that even beginner cooks can master, creating a truly delightful dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the amazing aromas and the satisfying taste of perfectly baked chicken!