Sunday Roast Chicken is a beloved British tradition, featuring succulent roasted chicken with crispy skin, tender vegetables, and rich pan juices. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings and brings warmth to any table.
Why You’ll Love This Traditional Roast Chicken Recipe
- Crispy, golden skin with juicy, flavorful meat
- Easy one-pan meal—less cleanup, more enjoyment
- Perfect for Sunday dinners or any special occasion
Classic British Roast Chicken Recipe
Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Additional Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 potatoes, peeled and halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ cup chicken stock
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Sunday Roast Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting tray.
- Rub softened butter all over the chicken skin for extra crispiness.
2. Season the Chicken
- In a small bowl, mix garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Gently lift the skin and rub the mixture under the skin and over the chicken for maximum flavor.
3. Stuff the Chicken
- Place lemon halves and onion quarters inside the chicken cavity to enhance aroma and moisture.
4. Prepare the Vegetables
- Arrange carrots and potatoes around the chicken in the roasting tray.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and black pepper.
5. Roast the Chicken
- Pour chicken stock into the base of the tray to keep the meat juicy.
- Roast for 1 hour 30 minutes, basting every 30 minutes with pan juices.
- The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.
6. Rest and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the roast chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
- Serve with roasted vegetables and drizzle with pan juices.
Pro Tips for the Best Roast Chicken
- For extra crispiness: Start roasting at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat.
- For deeper flavor: Marinate the chicken overnight with garlic, herbs, and olive oil.
- For a traditional Sunday Roast: Serve with Yorkshire pudding, gravy, and steamed greens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I know when my roast chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer—insert it into the thickest part of the chicken thigh. It should read 165°F (75°C).
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes. Roast the chicken, then reheat at 350°F for 15 minutes before serving.
Q: What can I do with leftover roast chicken?
A: Use it in sandwiches, salads, soups, or pasta dishes for easy meal prep.