Ingredients:

  • 1 whole chicken (3.75 lbs), split into two halves
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1.5 tsp coarse kosher salt
  • 1 tsp cracked black pepper
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme, leaves stripped
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 lb baby Yukon Gold potatoes, halved
  • 1 large lemon, sliced into rounds
  • 4 shallots, peeled and halved

Instructions:

  1. Pat the chicken halves extremely dry with paper towels. Note: Surface moisture is the enemy of a good sear.
  2. Season the undersides and the skin liberally with 1.5 tsp salt and 1 tsp black pepper.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat your cast iron skillet over medium high heat with the olive oil.
  4. Place chicken halves skin side down. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is deeply golden and releases easily from the pan.
  5. While searing, mix the 3 tbsp softened butter with garlic, rosemary, thyme, and smoked paprika.
  6. Flip the chicken skin side up and spread that herb butter thick across the browned skin.
  7. Arrange the halved potatoes, lemon slices, and shallots in the spaces around the chicken.
  8. Transfer the whole skillet into the 400°F oven.
  9. Roast for 40-45 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  10. Remove from oven and let the bird rest for 10 minutes until the juices settle and the meat relaxes. This resting period is where the magic happens. If you cut into it too soon, the juices will flood the board, leaving you with dry meat. Patience is an ingredient here. For more comfort food inspiration, you might enjoy my [Turkey Meatloaf recipe](https://chefyoyo.com/recipes/moist-classic-turkey-meatloaf-recipe/) which uses similar resting techniques to keep things moist. The Ultimate Guide to Grilling Juicy Chicken with Spicy Flavors — Looking for a delicious way to spice up your grilling? Try my go-to recipe fo...How to Make Delicious Monterey Chicken Spaghetti in 45 Minutes — Want to impress your family? My Monterey Chicken Spaghetti is a creamy, chees...Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs in Silky Parmesan Sauce — Upgrade your weeknight meal with these Creamy Spinach Turkey Meatballs Lean t... $img_2$