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A perfectly roasted chicken in a Dutch oven, golden brown and garnished with herbs.

Roast Chicken in Dutch Oven

A comforting and flavorful roast chicken recipe cooked in a Dutch oven, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1 whole whole chicken (3-4 pounds) Tender and juicy.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter For a golden skin.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder For aroma.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder For sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Earthy flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary Fragrant touch.
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika Mild flavor.

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 large onion, quartered Adds base flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed Strong aroma.
  • 2 carrots cut into 2-inch pieces Adds sweetness.
  • 2 celery stalks cut into 2-inch pieces For crunch.
  • 1 lemon halved Brightens flavor.
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme Extra herbaceous flavor.
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary More aromatic depth.

Optional Ingredients

  • 1 cup chicken broth For added moisture.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the Dutch oven (with the lid removed) inside to warm.
  • In a small bowl, mix kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and paprika.
  • Rub the chicken generously with olive oil or melted butter and season it well with the seasoning mix.
  • Stuff the cavity of the chicken with halved lemon pieces, fresh thyme, and rosemary.
  • Place the chicken breast-side up in the preheated Dutch oven.
  • Surround the chicken with quartered onion, smashed garlic, carrots, and celery.
  • If desired, pour in chicken broth around the chicken.

Cooking

  • Cover the pot and roast for 45 minutes.
  • Remove the lid and roast for an additional 20-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Notes

Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking for even cooking. Season generously and allow the chicken to rest after roasting for juicy meat. Avoid overcrowding the Dutch oven.
Keyword Comfort Food, Dutch Oven, Easy Recipe, Family Dinner, Roast Chicken