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How to Roast a Whole Chicken in a Toaster Oven

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How to Roast a Whole Chicken in a Toaster Oven

Roasting a whole chicken can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! With a toaster oven, you can achieve delicious, crispy-skinned chicken without the need for a large oven. This method is perfect for smaller kitchens or for those who want to cook a smaller portion of chicken.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley)

Equipment:

  • Toaster oven
  • Roasting pan or baking dish
  • Meat thermometer

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the chicken. Rinse the chicken inside and out, pat it dry, and remove any excess fat. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin.
  3. Stuff the chicken. Place the lemon wedges and fresh herbs inside the chicken cavity. You can also add other aromatics like garlic cloves or onions.
  4. Place the chicken in the roasting pan. Place the chicken in the roasting pan, breast side up. If your toaster oven is small, you may need to remove the legs and wings and roast them separately.
  5. Roast the chicken. Roast the chicken for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  6. Rest the chicken. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and make the meat even more tender.

Tips:

  • For crispier skin, you can roast the chicken on a rack placed over a baking sheet. This will allow air to circulate around the chicken.
  • If you want to add flavor, you can baste the chicken with pan drippings or melted butter during cooking.
  • You can use different herbs and spices to your liking.
  • If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can check the chicken’s doneness by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve the roasted chicken with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.
  • You can also use the leftover chicken to make sandwiches, salads, or soups.

Toaster Oven Recommendations:

If you’re looking for a good toaster oven, here are a few recommendations:

  • Cuisinart TOA-60 Convection Toaster Oven
  • Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven Pro
  • Black+Decker TO3250XSD Toaster Oven

Cookbook Recommendation:

For more recipes and tips on cooking with a toaster oven, check out the book “The Toaster Oven Cookbook” by America’s Test Kitchen.

Enjoy your delicious, home-roasted chicken!

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