There is something inherently comforting about roasting a whole chicken. The aroma fills the house, promising a hearty and satisfying meal to come. If you are learning how to prepare a whole chicken to cook, and looking for healthy recipes that are perfect and easy to prepare, here are six whole chicken recipes that offer a variety of flavours and techniques to elevate your culinary skills.

1. Classic Roast Chicken & Gravy

This timeless recipe is a staple in many UK households. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it is an ideal option for those learning how to prepare a whole chicken to cook.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ kg whole chicken
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 lemon halves
• Small bunch of thyme
• 25g softened butter
• 1 tbsp flour
• 250ml chicken stock
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

The chicken is seasoned with salt, pepper, lemon, and thyme and smothered with butter. It is then roasted at 190C/fan 170C/gas 5 for 1 hour and 20 minutes. The gravy is made by stirring flour into the roasting tin juices and adding chicken stock, creating a rich and flavourful sauce to accompany the chicken.

2. Juicy Roasted Chicken

This recipe puts a twist on the traditional roast, incorporating onion powder for an extra flavour boost.

Ingredients

• 1 (3 pound) whole chicken, giblets removed
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• ½ cup butter
• 1 stalk celery, leaves removed

Method

The chicken is seasoned generously inside and out with onion powder, salt, and pepper. Butter is placed in the chicken cavity and arranged on the outside. The chicken is then baked uncovered in the oven until the juices run clear when the thickest part of the bird is skewered.

3. Lemon & Thyme Butter-Basted Roast Chicken & Gravy

This tangy and aromatic recipe is a wonderful variation on a classic roast.

Ingredients

• A whole chicken
• lemon zest
• Thyme 
• Butter
• Salt and pepper
• Chicken stock.

Method

Rub the chicken with a mix of softened butter, lemon zest, thyme, salt, and pepper, then roast until the skin is crispy, and the juices run clear. Use the roasting juices to make a rich gravy.

4. Spatchcock Piri-Piri Chicken

This recipe introduces a different cooking technique known as spatchcocking, promising a deliciously spicy and evenly cooked chicken.

Ingredients

• A whole chicken
• Piri-piri sauce
• Olive oil 
• Lemon juice
• Garlic 

Method

Marinate the spatchcocked chicken in the piri-piri sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Roast until the skin is crispy, and the meat is cooked through.

5. Garlic and Rosemary Roast Chicken

This aromatic recipe combines the robust flavours of garlic and rosemary for a truly flavourful roast.

Ingredients

• A whole chicken
• Garlic cloves
• Bunch of rosemary.

Method

Stuff the chicken with garlic cloves and a bunch of rosemary, then roast at 190C/fan 170C/gas 5 for 1 hour and 20 minutes. The result is a wonderfully fragrant and flavourful roast chicken.

Tips for Preparing a Whole Chicken to Cook

Selecting the Chicken

Look for a chicken with a firm texture and a clean smell. Check the 'best by' date to ensure freshness.

Preparation

Remove the giblets and rinse the chicken under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.

Seasoning

Season the chicken inside and out for maximum flavour. Do not forget to season under the skin too.

Resting

Let the chicken rest for 15–20 minutes after roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in a more moist and flavourful bird.

Try One Of These Whole Chicken Recipes

These whole chicken recipes offer a delicious exploration of British cuisine. With a variety of flavours and techniques, there is a recipe to suit everyone's taste. Keep in mind that the key to a successful roast chicken is in the preparation.