This is the easiest, simple roast chicken recipe.

To me, it is true comfort food.

And sometimes I just dont have it in me.

Roasted chicken over vegetable in a braiser

Simply Recipes / Photo by Nico Schinco / Food Styling by Kaitlin Wayne

This simple roast chicken is just that: simple.

Theres no planning ahead beyond the cook time, and no special ingredients to hunt down.

No Bells and Whistles Required

The best thing about this recipe is its simplicity.

Carved chicken with vegetables on a platter

Simply Recipes / Photo by Nico Schinco / Food Styling by Kaitlin Wayne

That, and it yields a perfectly succulent roast chicken.

Dont have a roasting pan?

No sweat, neither do I!

Close up image of a roast chicken

Simply Recipes / Photo by Nico Schinco / Food Styling by Kaitlin Wayne

Plus, you could eat the schmaltzy vegetables as a side dish.

Even a large diced apple is nice.

Use whatever you have on hand.

Seasoned chopped carrots, onions, and whole potatoes in a roasting pan for simple chicken roast recipe

Simply Recipes / Frank Tiu

Toss with the oil and season with salt and pepper.

Spread out into an even layer.

Pat dry inside and out with paper towels.

Paper towel use to remove excess moisture from whole chicken for chicken roast recipe

Simply Recipes / Frank Tiu

Generously season the cavity of the chicken with salt and pepper.

Stuff with the lemon, onion, and rosemary or thyme, if using.

Use any leftover butter on your hands and spread it on the outside of the bird.

Whole chicken stuffed with halved lemon slices for simple roast chicken recipe

Simply Recipes / Frank Tiu

Season generously all over with salt and less generously with pepper.

Tuck the wings under the body so they dont stick out.

Place the chicken breast-side-up on top of the vegetables.

Whole chicken after smeared with butter for roasted chicken recipe

Simply Recipes / Frank Tiu

Simple Tip!

Be sure to keep track of everything that comes in contact with the raw chicken and its juices.

Wash your hands often and clean any surfaces, the sink, and any tools thoroughly after use.

Whole chicken after buttered and seasoned for simple roasted chicken recipe

Simply Recipes / Frank Tiu

Start testing for doneness 10 minutes before your target time, then every 10 minutes after that as needed.

Both temperature readings should register at least 165F per the USDA.

If youre nervous about it, just cook until you reach the full 165F.

Seasoned whole chicken placed on seasoned vegetables in the roasting pan for roast chicken recipe

Simply Recipes / Frank Tiu

Use the lemon from the chicken and squeeze it over the vegetables.

Serve alongside, if desired.

Leftover roast chicken will keep for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Electric thermometer checking internal temperature of the roasted chicken. Thermometer reads 165F.

Simply Recipes / Frank Tiu

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Lemon half squeezed onto the simple roasted chicken and vegetables using a pair of tongs

Simply Recipes / Frank Tiu