Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4lbs) – remove anything from the cavity of the bird
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment for easier clean up, then place a wire rack on top. Mix the baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken on a cutting board and remove the backbone from the chicken. To do this, use a sharp pair of poultry shears to cut on either side of the backbone, where the meat and bones are thinner.
- Flip the chicken onto it’s front, opening it up. Press firmly on the chicken’s breast to break the wishbone and flatten the bird.
- Use a paper towel to dry the chicken as much as possible. Transfer it to a wire rack placed over a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the chicken with the baking powder, salt, and pepper mixture. Rub it into the skin, then drizzle with butter and rub in some more.
- Roast 45 minutes, then check the temperature. Cook until the breast near the breastbone is 165°F.
- Transfer to a cutting board and rest at least 10 minutes. Then carve and serve!
Notes
- Tip: Cut up some potatoes and/or carrots into large wedges and place on the baking sheet under the chicken. Juices and fat from the chicken will drip down (no need to season them separately) and cook them beautifully!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: American