Whole Baked Chicken
Juicy whole baked chicken infused with aromatic oregano, garlic, and olive oil, perfect for family dinners or special occasions with classic, hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the chicken thoroughly.
- Place the chicken on a baking dish.
- Sprinkle oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper to taste over the chicken.
- Coat the chicken with olive oil.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 1 1/2 hours.
- Turn the chicken occasionally during cooking, about 3 or 4 times.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, minced garlic, and oregano for a few hours before baking. If you don’t have oregano, thyme or rosemary can be great substitutes. Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before baking for even cooking. For a crispy skin, increase the temperature to 425°F (220°C) during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the whole baked chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Mediterranean recipes like Lemon Chicken With Bulgur for an added zest. Consider serving it with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be cautious as it may dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Whole Baked Chicken contains roughly 87 calories, with 3g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (52% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 512mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The juices should run clear, not pink, when pierced.
Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken parts like thighs or breasts instead of a whole chicken. Adjust the baking time to 30-45 minutes depending on the size of the pieces, ensuring they also reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What should I do if the chicken skin isn't crispy?
If the chicken skin isn't crispy, you can broil it for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Make sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Also, patting the skin dry before seasoning can help achieve a crisper texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).