Oven Roasted Whole Chicken Recipe with Sumac and Za’atar

Whole Roasted Chicken Recipe—my go-to for a flavorful feast when time is short. This easy oven-roasted chicken, infused with za’atar and sumac, delivers a perfect balance of earthy and citrusy flavors with minimal effort. A quick marinade and some oven time transform it into a sophisticated yet simple dish that will become a favorite in your kitchen. Experience the rich, aromatic tastes of the Middle East in every bite!

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.
• 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.

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.