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KFC tender roast chicken recipe

KFC Tender Roast Chicken Recipe

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This KFC-inspired tender roast chicken recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a perfectly seasoned crust and crispy golden skin. Marinated in buttermilk and coated with a blend of savory herbs and spices, it’s an easy oven-roasted meal that’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. Serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or fresh salad for a complete comfort-food feast.

  • Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 whole chicken (4–5 pounds), cleaned and patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter

Marinade

  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Seasoning Blend

  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon white pepper
  • ½ teaspoon celery salt
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Optional for Roasting

  • Baby potatoes
  • Carrots
  • Onion wedges
  • Whole garlic bulbs
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, and half of the seasoning blend.
  2. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the marinade, making sure to get some under the skin. Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  3. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking.
  4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Pat the chicken lightly to remove excess marinade.
  6. Brush the chicken with olive oil and melted butter.
  7. Rub the remaining seasoning blend evenly over the entire chicken.
  8. Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan. Arrange vegetables around the chicken if desired.
  9. Roast for 1 hour 30 minutes, basting every 25–30 minutes with the pan juices.
  10. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) during the final 15 minutes to crisp the skin.
  11. Cook until the thickest part of the breast and thigh reaches 165°F (74°C).
  12. Remove from the oven and loosely cover with foil.
  13. Rest for 15–20 minutes before carving and serving.

Notes

  • Marinating overnight produces the most flavorful and tender chicken.
  • A meat thermometer is the best way to avoid overcooking.
  • Resting the chicken before carving keeps the meat juicy.
  • For crispier skin, leave the chicken uncovered in the refrigerator for one hour before roasting.
  • Leftovers are excellent for sandwiches, salads, wraps, soups, and pasta dishes.
  • Add smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Author: MenuHoursUSA
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (+ 8 hours marinating)
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Oven Roasting
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: High Protein

Find it online: https://menuhoursusa.com/kfc-tender-roast-chicken-recipe/