When I think of cozy, homey meals, there are a few favorites that come to mind. One of those favorites is a roasted chicken. There are so very many ways to cook a whole chicken, and oh so many different recipes to use. I love trying new ones that I find in magazines or cookbooks or even online. But, every once in awhile, I love getting in the kitchen, perusing the pantry and spice cupboards and just make up my own concoction. I cross my fingers and hope it tastes good...this was one of the times the results were scrumptious!
Not only did the roasted chicken taste heavenly, the scents that were filling our home were so warm and very fitting for a cool, crisp day. Here's what I did:
Herb Roasted Chicken
Wash and dry a whole, roasting chicken. Once it is all dried, lay it in your roasting or baking pan. Tuck the wings under and tie the legs together with string. Then, rub it with olive oil all over, including under the skin and inside.
Next, combine the following ingredients together and sprinkle liberally all over and inside the chicken, including under the skin:
1 tsp. rosemary
1 tsp. basil
3/4 tsp. sage
3/4 tsp. thyme
3/4 tsp. pepper
1 tsp. salt
I used all dried herbs and crushed them in a bowl before sprinkling over the chicken.
Finally, simply pour about 1 + 1/2 cups apple juice or cider in the bottom the pan, all around your chicken. Roast in a moderate oven (around 350*F) until it is done according to a meat thermometer.
As a quick side note, I love using organic whole chickens whenever I make roasted chicken. I always save the bones and bits and make a wonderful, nutritious homemade chicken broth in the crockpot. Just a little idea in being frugal and healthy all at once!
Have a lovely day!