Everyone should know how to roast a kick-ass chicken & this one won’t disappoint. The easy spice rub will transform a humble chicken into dinner perfection.
Over our December holidays I was chatting to my family one day about what they think most food blogs lack. My brothers immediately said “Simple, basic recipes that deliver seriously good results.” That got me thinking. Yes, this blog is called “Simply Delicious” and yes, I pride myself on making simple and delicious food but in many of my recipes, I assume that you, the reader, know what I talk about when I say “sauté the onions” and “julienne the courgettes”. But in fact, there are probably quite a few kitchen newbies reading my posts not knowing what the heck is going on.
And yes, I often say “But just Google what it means” but that’s sometimes such a hassle. Which brings me to the point of this rather long-winded intro: I have decided to start a series of “Basics” posts. Posts in which I guide you through the basic recipes every person needs to know, in my opinion. Recipes that take next to no time to put together, using ingredients most people have in their cupboards.
Here are more details for the recipe for roast chicken with spicy oil:
**Ingredients:**
*For the Spicy Oil:*
– 3 teaspoons mixed spice of your choice (e.g., chicken spice)
– 1-2 teaspoons smoked or sweet paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 teaspoons dried mixed herbs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Black pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
*For the Roast Chicken:*
– 1 x 1.5-1.8kg free-range chicken, giblets removed
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. **Prepare the Spicy Oil:** In a small bowl, combine the mixed spice, smoked or sweet paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), dried mixed herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix well. Then add the vegetable oil and lemon juice to the spice mixture and stir until thoroughly combined.
3. **Season the Chicken:** Lightly season the chicken with salt, both on the skin and inside the cavity.
4. **Coat the Chicken:** Place the seasoned chicken onto a baking sheet or into a roasting pan. Brush the chicken with the spicy oil mixture, making sure to cover the entire surface of the skin. You can also brush some of the mixture inside the cavity for added flavor.
5. **Roast the Chicken:** Place the chicken in the preheated oven and roast for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the juices run clear when you make a cut between the drumstick and the breast. Baste the chicken with the remaining spicy oil mixture every 20 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
6. **Rest the Chicken:** Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let the chicken rest for 20-30 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier chicken.
7. **Carve and Serve:** After resting, carve the chicken into portions and serve.
This roast chicken with spicy oil is flavorful and aromatic, making it a perfect main dish for any occasion. Feel free to adjust the spices and seasonings according to your taste preferences. Enjoy!
