How to Roast a Chicken

Chicken is a versatile option for dishes that can be enjoyed all year round, and can be cooked in various ways to fully maximise its flavours.

Roasting is a favourite way to cook chicken for family meals, hearty salads and many other healthy dinner ideas. It is perfect for keeping chicken juicy and infusing it with delicious flavours.

Prepping chicken for roasting

There are a few easy steps you can take to make the most of chicken before roasting.

Flattening for butterflied roast chicken

When preparing chicken breasts or thighs, a good technique is to flatten the meat before roasting. This makes it easier to roast the chicken evenly and efficiently, ensuring a uniform thickness throughout the piece.

Cover the piece of chicken with cling film and use a meat cleaver or a rolling pin to pummel the chicken and evenly distribute the meat. If you’re working with chicken thigh, open it out or butterfly the chicken first before doing so.

Roast chicken seasoning

Once flattened, it’s time to add flavour and season the chicken. Brush the chicken with olive oil, sprinkle on seasonings and spices, or marinate it in zesty citrus flavours like lemon juice. You could also simply coat chicken in your favourite spices, such as paprika or cajun. 

How long to roast chicken

In general, the roasting time for chicken should be around 30-35 minutes, depending on the oven temperature and the specific cut being used.

Start by preheating the oven, then add seasoning and salt if this has not already been done.

How long to roast a chicken breast

For a juicy roast chicken breast, place the chicken on baking sheets in the oven and cook until the breast is golden-brown and cooked through, with no pink in the centre. The temperature should reach 75°C for 30 seconds and 70°C for two minutes at the core of the meat. To ensure safe cooking of the meat, use a meat thermometer to accurately monitor and control the temperatures.

How long to roast a chicken thigh

Chicken thighs require a slightly longer cooking time. For an extra crispy finish, heat up the broiler once the chicken has finished roasting. Broil until golden brown and crisp, approximately 2 minutes. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes after cooking is complete.

Roast chicken recipes

For a some more inspiration on roasted chicken recipes, explore these offerings on the HelloFresh menu.

Roast Chicken & Crispy Prosciutto with Creamy Dijon Sauce

A twist on a classic combo – roast chicken and mash. The golden roasted chicken pairs perfectly with this elevated mash, topped with mustard sauce and crispy prosciutto.

Smokey Chicken Drumsticks & Roast Veggies

A simple chicken and veg dinner with a major makeover! Before roasting, the chicken is marinated in Kiwi seasoning and honey for a sweet and smokey hit, served with a rainbow of roasted veggies. 

Explore the menu for more delicious chicken recipes and try them for yourself with your first HelloFresh delivery.