Roast Chicken

Method
Cook until internal temperature is in the range of 140°F-155°F, depending on your preference and how much carryover cooking happens with your situation. Anything 140°F or above renders the chicken safe to eat. Using a thermometer is critical, and a remote thermometer is even better!
Prep
- Spatchcock the chicken
- Salt lightly and leave uncovered in the refrigerator for 24–72 hours to air-dry.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Lightly oil the skin, or coat with mayonaisse or Green Goddess Dressing.
Air Fryer
- Preheat to 385°F.
- If not using a remote thermometer, start checking at around 20 minutes.
Oven
- Preheat the oven fully to 450°F (230°C), along with the baking pan (but not the chicken). High heat is important, so let the oven sit at temperature for a bit to ensure it's fully warmed.
- Place the chicken skin-side up in the warmed pan.
sRest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Storage
Refrigerator
Roast chicken keeps well in the refrigerator and is often easier to use after the meat has been removed from the carcass.
- Allow the chicken to cool until just warm.
- Remove the meat from the bones and store in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for 3–4 days.
Separating the meat from the carcass saves space and makes it easier to use the chicken in other dishes such as salads, soups, or quick skillet meals.
Freezer
Cooked chicken freezes well and is useful to keep on hand for future recipes.
- Portion the meat into meal-sized amounts (for example 1–2 cups shredded chicken).
- Place in freezer bags or containers such as Souper Cubes, removing as much air as possible.
- Freeze up to 2–3 months for best quality.
Adding a spoonful of pan juices or chicken stock to the meat before freezing can help prevent dryness when reheated.
Reheating
Air Fryer Reheat
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the chicken in a single layer with the skin exposed.
- Heat until the meat is warmed through, 125–135°F, and the skin is crisp, usually 3–8 minutes depending on the size of the pieces.
- Check frequently near the end of cooking to avoid overcooking the meat.
For larger pieces such as breasts or quarters, use a lower temperature or remove the chicken as soon as it is heated through to prevent drying.
Oven Reheat
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken on a rack or baking sheet, ideally skin-side up.
- Pat the skin dry if it feels damp from refrigeration.
- Heat until the meat is hot and the skin has re-crisped, usually 15–25 minutes depending on the size of the pieces.
Inspirations
- Racevice Smokehouse & Grill: How to cook a Spatchcock Chicken in the Air Fryer - Big Wick's Texi-Cajaun Ranch Flavor Bomb!
- The Food Lab: Roasted Butterfly Chicken
- For the Best Roast Chicken, Slather Your Spatchcock in Mayo | Kenji's Cooking Show