Ingredients
1 whole small chicken (about 4–5 lbs), cleaned of giblets
4 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon white pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup room temperature butter
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 250°F (120°C).
Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, mix all the dry ingredients (salt, paprika, onion powder, thyme, white pepper, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and garlic powder). Set aside.
Prepare the chicken: Rinse and pat dry the chicken with paper towels. Place the chicken in a roasting pan. (Optional: Stuff the chicken with your favorite stuffing.)
Butter and season: Rub the room temperature butter all over the chicken. Then, sprinkle the dry seasoning evenly over the chicken, making sure to coat it well.
Roast the chicken: Place the chicken in the oven and roast for 5 hours. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 160°F (71°C) or higher.
Baste the chicken: Every hour, turn the roasting pan for even cooking. After 2 hours, begin basting the chicken with the juices from the pan and brush the chicken to achieve an even, golden brown color.
Rest the chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Notes
Stuffing option: You can stuff the chicken with your choice of stuffing for added flavor.
Resting time: Allow the chicken to rest after roasting for juicier meat.
Internal temperature: Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to avoid undercooking.
Basting: Basting helps create a crispy and even skin, so don’t skip this step.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Category: Main course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
