Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary roast chicken into an extraordinary Thai-inspired masterpiece! This isn't just another chicken recipe - it's a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Thailand. With a perfect blend of savory soy sauce, tangy lime, and aromatic garlic, this roast chicken promises to be the star of your dining table, delivering restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Thai
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Position the oven rack in the middle of the oven.
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper to create a marinade. Whisk ingredients together until well blended.
- Carefully loosen the chicken skin using your fingers, being careful not to tear it. Rub half of the marinade mixture directly under the skin, ensuring even distribution.
- Rub the remaining marinade over the entire exterior of the chicken, coating it completely.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Every 20 minutes, baste the chicken with pan juices to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- To make the gravy, strain the pan drippings and skim off excess fat. Reduce the liquid in a saucepan over medium heat until slightly thickened.
- Carve the chicken and serve hot with the prepared Thai-inspired gravy on the side.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your chicken come to room temperature before roasting to ensure even cooking and a perfectly crispy skin.
- Skin Preparation: Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step guarantees that irresistibly crisp, golden-brown exterior.
- Marinade Magic: Take your time when rubbing the marinade under the skin - this is where the deep flavors truly penetrate the meat.
- Basting Technique: Regular basting (every 20 minutes) is essential to keep the chicken moist and develop a rich, glossy exterior.
- Resting is Crucial: Never skip the 10-15 minute resting period after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.
- Gravy Perfection: Strain the pan drippings and reduce carefully to create a concentrated, flavor-packed gravy that complements the chicken beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 140mg
