Chicken in a bag

Delicious oven-baked chicken recipe with herbs

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

This simple and tasty oven-baked chicken recipe with herbs is sure to become one of your favorites! The chicken is marinated in a mixture of spices and olive oil, then stuffed with fresh herbs, providing a rich and aromatic flavor. Perfect for a quick family dinner or to impress guests!

Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1 bunch of fresh rosemary
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 lemon (cut into wedges)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken under cold running water and drying it with a paper towel. This step is essential for getting a crispy skin.

2. Spice mixture: In a bowl, combine the 2 tablespoons of olive oil with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to create a smooth paste.

3. Brushing the chicken: Using a kitchen brush, apply the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin to infuse the meat with flavor.

4. Stuffing the chicken: Take the bunches of fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley) and stuff the chicken with them. Also, add the lemon wedges inside the chicken for a fresh and citrusy flavor.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the chicken in a baking dish, breast side up. Bake the chicken for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C. You can check the temperature with a meat thermometer, ensuring it is perfectly cooked.

6. Serving: Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different herbs, such as oregano or basil, to adapt the recipe to your preferences.
- If you want a crispier chicken, you can leave the skin exposed in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking to dry it out.
- Stay creative with sides! A fresh salad or vegetable rice are excellent options.

This oven-baked chicken recipe with herbs is not only simple but also elegant, perfect for any occasion. Try it and add a splash of color and flavor to your meals!