Oven Roasted Whole Chicken Recipe with Sumac and Za’atar

When I’m pressed for time but longing for a flavorful feast, my easy oven Whole Chicken Roasted Recipe with Za’atar and Sumac never disappoints. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of vibrant flavors, conveniently simple yet exuding sophistication in every bite. With just a quick marinade and some oven time, this dish unfolds into an earthy and citrusy culinary masterpiece, thanks to the aromatic za’atar and the tangy sumac. It’s not only my favorite but will secure a spot in your cherished recipe collection. Dive into a fuss-free experience that guarantees a meal resonating with the enchanting tastes of the Middle East!

What You Need to Make Whole Roasted Chicken Recipe

• Whole Chicken (4-5 lbs.): The star of the show, the whole Chicken, provides a hearty and succulent meat base that absorbs all the flavors and seasonings, resulting in a mouthwatering and tender main dish.
• Ghee or Olive Oil: Ghee or olive oil is used to coat the Chicken, helping to make the skin crispy and flavorful while keeping the meat moist.
• Kosher Salt and Fresh Black Pepper: These seasonings enhance the overall flavor and ensure the Chicken is well-seasoned.
• Za’atar and Sumac: Za’atar and Sumac combine to create a rich and unique flavor profile. Za’atar contributes earthy depth, while sumac adds a tangy twist, resulting in a tantalizingly delicious meal rooted in tradition.
• Fresh Garlic: Plenty of fresh garlic infuses the Chicken with a robust and aromatic flavor that complements the other spices.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Lemon juice and zest brighten the dish’s overall flavor, adding a citrusy kick that balances the richness of the Chicken and spices, resulting in a delightful and well-rounded taste.
• Onions: Sliced onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the Chicken as they caramelize during roasting, contributing to the overall savory goodness of the dish.
• Optional: Small Red Potatoes (2 lbs.): These potatoes, if added, absorb the flavors of the Chicken and seasonings while becoming tender and flavorful. They make for a delightful side dish when roasted alongside the Chicken.

Tips: Whole Chicken Roasted Recipe

• Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Maintain this temperature for the initial 20 minutes of roasting. Afterward, reduce the heat to 375°F and continue roasting until the Chicken is fully cooked. The exact timing will depend on your Chicken’s size.
• Marinating Time: To infuse the Chicken with rich flavors, marinate it in the seasonings for at least a couple of hours and up to 12 hours. This allows the herbs and flavors to penetrate the Chicken deeply.
• One-Pan Convenience: Enhance your meal by adding vegetables to the roasting pan alongside the Chicken. Vegetables like small red potatoes, onions, carrots, and cauliflower work beautifully in this recipe.
• Adding Water: Ensure your chicken stays moist and prevents drippings from burning by adding water to the pan. You can also use the resulting juice to baste the Chicken every 20 minutes.
• Covering for Moisture: For the first hour of cooking, it’s recommended to cover the chicken. Uncover it for the final 15 minutes to achieve that desired golden-brown color.
• Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee safety and succulence. The internal temperature should read 165°F, eliminating harmful bacteria. However, for a juicier finish, consider removing it at 160°F.
• Resting Time: After roasting, allow the chicken to rest, covered, for 15 minutes. This step completes the cooking process and allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent and flavorful.
• Flavorful Finish: To elevate the flavor profile significantly, generously sprinkle za’atar and sumac over the roasted whole Chicken.
• Savoring Every Bit: Don’t waste anything; chicken bones are excellent for making rich, savory stock, enhancing the depth of flavor in various dishes.
• Choosing the Right Size: When selecting your chicken, remember that a 5lb whole chicken will yield approximately 3.23 lbs of meat. Bones comprise a portion of the total weight, with meat accounting for roughly 65%. Choose your chicken size based on the servings you need.

Perfect Pairings for Whole Chicken Roasted

Traditionally, this roasted chicken is ideally complemented with rice and an excellent, tangy yogurt-cucumber salad. The soft, fluffy Rice With Vermicelli is perfect for soaking up the delightful juices and flavors from the chicken. Meanwhile, the yogurt-cucumber salad offers a refreshing counterbalance to the rich chicken flavor. For a twist, consider serving this dish with non-traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes, savory oven-roasted vegetables, or tender grilled asparagus.