Baked Chicken Recipe

Here’s a delicious 5-star baked chicken recipe that will bring out the best flavors of your heritage chicken:

Ingredients:

• 1 whole heritage chicken (about 4-5 lbs)

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 1 lemon, halved

• 1 onion, quartered

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup chicken broth (or white wine for extra flavor)

• 1 tablespoon honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)

  
  

---

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

   
   

2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, ensuring the skin is nice and dry. This will help it become crispy during baking.

   
   

3. Herb Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, softened butter, thyme, rosemary, parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

   
   

4. Season the Chicken: Carefully loosen the skin of the chicken with your fingers, being careful not to tear it. Rub the herb butter mixture under the skin and over the top of the chicken. Make sure to coat the entire bird, especially the breasts and thighs, for the best flavor.

   
   

5. Stuff the Chicken: Stuff the chicken cavity with the lemon halves and onion quarters. These will infuse the chicken with a lovely aroma while it bakes.

   
   

6. Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken in a roasting pan. Pour the chicken broth (or white wine) into the bottom of the pan. This will keep the chicken moist and create a flavorful base for gravy if desired.

   
   

7. Baking: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the chicken occasionally with the pan juices to ensure a golden, crispy skin.

   
   

8. Optional Glaze: For a slightly sweet finish, drizzle the chicken with honey about 10 minutes before it’s done roasting. This will create a beautiful, caramelized glaze.

   
   

9. Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.

   
   

10. Serve: Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy the juicy, flavorful heritage chicken!

    
    
    
    

This recipe enhances the natural flavors of heritage chicken, ensuring it stays tender and full of rich, savory notes.