Juicy Roasted Chicken

• Effortless Elegance: This recipe lives up to its name – it's incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and cooking skills. Even beginner cooks can achieve restaurant-worthy results!
• Flavor Explosion: Don't be fooled by the simplicity – this chicken packs a punch in the flavor department. The combination of rosemary and lemon (though not included in this specific recipe) creates a delightful aroma that fills your home and complements the chicken beautifully.
• Weeknight Wonder: Short on time? No problem! This recipe roasts at a moderate temperature, making it perfect for busy weeknights. While the chicken cooks, you can whip up some side dishes or simply relax and enjoy the delicious aroma.
• Weekend Winner: This recipe is equally at home on a weekend when you have more time to savor the cooking process. Enjoy the delightful scent of roasting chicken wafting through your house, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
• Superior to Store-Bought: Ditch the rotisserie chicken from the grocery store! This homemade version delivers superior flavor and texture, with juicy meat and crispy skin that are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• The Star of the Show:
• 1 (3-pound) whole chicken, giblets removed (feel free to adjust the cooking time slightly for different chicken weights)
• Flavor Boosters:
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon onion powder (or substitute with your favorite herbs)
• For a Touch of Luxury:
• ½ cup margarine, divided (you can substitute with butter or olive oil)
• Aromatic Addition (Optional):
• 1 stalk celery, leaves removed (fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme would also be wonderful additions)

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season the chicken generously inside and out with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle the inside and outside of the cavity with onion powder (or your chosen herbs).
2. Flavorful Prep: Place 3 tablespoons of margarine (or butter/olive oil) inside the chicken cavity. This helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful while cooking. Dot the remaining margarine around the exterior skin of the chicken.
3. Aromatic Addition (Optional): Cut the celery stalk (or your chosen fresh herbs) into a few pieces and place them inside the chicken cavity. This adds an extra layer of aroma and subtle flavor to the chicken.
4. Roast to Perfection: Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan. Roast the chicken uncovered for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
5. Temperature Check: For perfectly cooked chicken, it's important to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh (not touching the bone) should reach 180°F (82°C).
6. Basting Bliss: Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the oven. Baste the chicken with the melted pan drippings for extra flavor and shine.
7. Rest for Perfection: Cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
8. Carve and Savor: Carve your perfectly roasted chicken and serve it alongside your favorite roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or rice. Enjoy the delicious flavor and crispy skin of this easy-to-make yet impressive main course!