Roasted chicken is a cozy dinner that warms the heart and fills the belly. It’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavors that your family will love. Perfect for family gatherings or a simple weeknight meal, this dish isn’t just delicious; it’s comforting too.
Why You Will Love This Roasted Chicken Recipe
This roasted chicken recipe is simple and rewarding. You won’t need fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. It’s all about ease and flavor, making it a perfect choice for busy families. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can enjoy it with many sides, and it’s a meal that can please everyone at the table.
How to Make Roasted Chicken
Making roasted chicken is easy and straightforward. You’ll create a tasty marinade, let the chicken soak up those wonderful flavors, and then cook it to perfection in the oven or on the grill. You don’t need to be an expert to make a dish that’s tender and juicy.
What You Need
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3-4 garlic cloves minced or 1 tablespoon garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon achiote powder (ground annatto seed or achiote paste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Mexican preferred)
- 2 teaspoons sea salt or Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 3 pounds chicken thighs legs and/or breast, bone-in or boneless, skin-on or skinless, trimmed of any excess fat
- Lime wedges
- Chopped cilantro
Cooking Steps
- Mix Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, achiote powder, cumin, coriander, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate: Place your chicken in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and make sure it’s well coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Prep and Preheat Gas Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Prep and Preheat Charcoal Grill: If using a charcoal grill, light the charcoal and let it reach medium-high heat.
- Grill: Check grilling times for bone-in and boneless chicken in the recipe notes.
- Oven Roasting: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet and roast for about 35-40 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Optional Garnishes: Serve with lime wedges and garnish with chopped cilantro.
How to Serve Roasted Chicken
This roasted chicken pairs beautifully with various sides. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, fluffy rice, or a crisp salad. You can also add fresh lime juice over the chicken for a burst of flavor.
How to Store Roasted Chicken
To keep leftovers fresh, store your chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the chicken well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place it in a freezer-safe container. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Recipe Tips
- Marinating longer enhances flavor.
- Bone-in chicken tends to be juicier.
- Trim excess fat for a cleaner flavor.
- Always check the chicken’s internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Feel free to adjust spices based on your preference.
Variations & Swaps
- Try lemon juice instead of orange juice for a citrus twist.
- Use skinless chicken for a lighter option.
- Add a tablespoon of honey for a touch of sweetness.
- Swap out chicken for pork chops for a different main dish.
- Use any herbs you have on hand, like thyme or rosemary.
FAQs
Can I make this chicken ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken the night before, which will develop the flavors nicely. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Can I freeze leftover roasted chicken?
Absolutely! Make sure to wrap it well. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat roasted chicken?
Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave on low power to keep it moist.
Can I substitute any ingredients?
Yes, you can swap the orange juice with apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile. You may also use dried spices instead of fresh herbs as needed.
What are some common mistakes to avoid?
Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can become dry. Also, make sure you let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
