Imagine a golden-brown, juicy whole chicken that practically melts in your mouth, infused with rich flavors and a crispy skin that’s simply irresistible. Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with our "Whole Chicken with Mayo" recipe! This dish is not only a showstopper for your dinner table but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that promises to impress!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Remove the whole chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Position the oven rack in the middle of the oven for optimal heat circulation.
- Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the mayonnaise and seasonings adhere better and promotes crispy skin.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Gently separate the chicken skin from the meat using your fingers, being careful not to tear the skin. This allows the seasoned mayonnaise to penetrate under the skin.
- Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly under the skin and all over the exterior of the chicken, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. If available, use a roasting rack to elevate the chicken for more even cooking.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Every 30 minutes, baste the chicken with its own juices or pan drippings to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired. Carve and serve hot.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: Always remove the chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. This step ensures even cooking throughout the bird, resulting in perfectly tender meat.
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Make sure to thoroughly pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the mayonnaise and seasonings stick better, leading to a beautifully crispy skin.
- Flavor Under the Skin: For maximum flavor, gently separate the skin from the meat and spread the seasoned mayonnaise mixture underneath. This technique infuses the chicken with deliciousness from the inside out.
- Use a Roasting Rack: If you have one, use a roasting rack to elevate the chicken. This allows hot air to circulate all around, ensuring even cooking and a perfectly crispy exterior.
- Baste for Moisture: Don’t forget to baste the chicken every 30 minutes with its own juices. This not only keeps the meat moist but also enhances the flavor, giving you a rich and savory dish.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent and full of flavor.
- Garnish for Presentation: For a touch of color and freshness, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. It adds a beautiful finish to your delicious creation!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
