Whole Roasted Chicken

Step 1

Place a wire rack on top of a rimmed baking sheet. Liberally sprinkle salt all over the outside of the chicken. Cover the chicken loosely with parchment paper and refrigerate overnight (about 24 hours).

Step 2

Preheat oven to 500° F. Let the chicken sit on the counter and come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting.

Step 3

In a large bowl, toss together the potatoes, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and salt and pepper, to taste.

Step 4

Place potatoes in the bottom of a cast iron Dutch oven. Add the lemon, garlic and onion. Drizzle with about 1 more tablespoon of olive oil. Place thyme and rosemary on top.

Step 5

Place the chicken on top of the potatoes and herbs in the Dutch oven. Tie the legs of the chicken together and tuck the wings underneath. Brush with melted butter and season with pepper.

Step 6

Roast chicken at 500° F for 20 minutes. Without opening the oven, reduce the temperature to 350° F and continue roasting for 30-40 more minutes, or until a meat thermometer reads 165° F when inserted between the thigh and breast.

Step 7

Remove the chicken from the oven. Allow to rest for at least 10 minutes before carving and serving.