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Juicy Black Pepper Whole Chicken

Perfectly Juicy Black Pepper Whole Chicken for Family Feasts

This Juicy Black Pepper Whole Chicken recipe is perfect for easy family dinners featuring a peppery crust and succulent meat.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 whole Chicken (3-4 lbs) Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken for juiciness.
  • 2 teaspoons Kosher Salt Enhances flavor and retains moisture while roasting.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Locks in moisture and creates a crisp skin.
For the Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons Black Peppercorns Freshly ground for bold flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced for subtle flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Brightens the dish.
  • 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme or Rosemary Infuses herbal notes.
For Roasting
  • 3 cups Vegetables e.g., carrots, onions, potatoes.
  • 2 tablespoons Butter Optional; adds richness.

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • meat thermometer
  • Oven

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) with the rack positioned in the center.
  2. Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken, massaging it into the skin and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Rub garlic and lemon juice under the skin and allow to rest for about 15 minutes.
  5. Stuff the chicken cavity with sprigs of thyme or rosemary and lemon halves.
  6. Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes.
  7. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting for an additional 45-50 minutes.
  8. Remove from oven and tent with foil; let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure chicken skin is dry before seasoning for crispy texture. Use a thermometer to check internal temperature.

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