Are you looking for a quick and easy dinner recipe that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Old Bay roasted chicken recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It’s surprisingly simple to make, yet delivers a depth of flavor that will impress even the most discerning palates. This homemade recipe is a delicious and healthy meal option, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to elevate your chicken game!
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), patted dry
- 2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small onion, quartered
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels; this helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the Old Bay seasoning, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it gets into every nook and cranny. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
Step 3: Stuff the Cavity
Place the lemon halves, rosemary, and thyme sprigs inside the chicken cavity.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken
Place the chopped carrots, celery, and onion in the bottom of a roasting pan. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables. This creates a flavorful base and keeps the chicken from sticking.
Step 5: Cook to Perfection
Roast the chicken for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C). Basting the chicken halfway through with pan juices will add extra moisture and flavor.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird. Serve with the roasted vegetables and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Old Bay Roasted Chicken:
- For extra crispy skin: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space around the chicken for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked through.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to add more or less Old Bay seasoning depending on your preference.
Variations:
- Spicy Old Bay Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mixture.
- Lemon Herb Old Bay Chicken: Increase the amount of lemon and herbs for a brighter, more herbaceous flavor.
- Old Bay Chicken with Potatoes: Add chopped potatoes to the roasting pan along with the other vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 35-40g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This Old Bay roasted chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can easily prepare at home. It’s a perfect healthy meal, a great quick dinner idea, and showcases the versatility of this classic spice blend. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe!