How to Bake a Chicken

Baking a chicken is a delicious and simple way to prepare a flavorful meal. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to bake a chicken:

Ingredients: - 1 whole chicken, about 4-5 pounds - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper - 1 lemon, halved - Fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. Remove the chicken from the packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.

3. Rub the chicken with olive oil, making sure to coat the entire bird. This will help the skin brown and crisp up in the oven.

4. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out.

5. Stuff the chicken cavity with half a lemon and a few sprigs of fresh herbs if desired.

6. Place the chicken on a roasting pan or a baking sheet with a wire rack.

7. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the bird (avoiding touching bone).

8. Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving it to allow the juices to settle.

9. Serve with roasted vegetables, potatoes or your favorite side dish.

Enjoy your deliciously baked chicken!