Rotisserie Style Roast Chicken

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a perfectly seasoned rotisserie-style roast chicken wafting through your kitchen. This recipe recreates the flavors of the classic rotisserie chicken you’d find at your favorite deli, but it’s even better because it’s homemade. With a perfectly golden, crispy skin and tender, juicy meat infused with a blend of savory spices, this chicken is perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or serving at a gathering. Simple to prepare yet full of flavor, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs), giblets removed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 4 garlic cloves, smashed
• Fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper. Rub the chicken with olive oil, then generously apply the spice blend, ensuring it’s evenly coated inside and out.
3. Stuff the Cavity: Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon quarters, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs if using.
4. Truss the Chicken: Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the bird to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
5. Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken on a roasting rack in a large baking pan. Roast for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast and 175°F (80°C) in the thigh. Baste the chicken with its juices halfway through cooking for extra flavor and crispiness.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat.
7. Enjoy: Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad.

This rotisserie-style roast chicken is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an impressive centerpiece for any meal. Enjoy the crispy skin and perfectly seasoned meat with your loved ones!