Rotisserie chicken is a beloved classic, known for its crispy, golden skin and tender, juicy meat. Whether you have a rotisserie oven, a grill with a rotisserie attachment, or just your regular oven, you can recreate that delicious rotisserie-style chicken right at home. Here’s a friendly, easy-to-follow guide on how to cook a rotisserie chicken that will impress your family and friends.
What You’ll Need
Equipment:
– Rotisserie oven or grill with rotisserie attachment (If you don’t have one, your regular oven works too!)
– Kitchen twine for trussing the chicken
– Meat thermometer (highly recommended for perfect doneness)
– Roasting pan or baking dish (for oven method)
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (4 to 5 pounds)
– Olive oil or melted butter
– Spice rub (paprika, garlic powder or garlic salt, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper)
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by removing the giblets from the chicken cavity. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp up during cooking. Trussing the chicken-tying the legs and wings close to the body with kitchen twine-helps it cook evenly and keeps it looking neat on the rotisserie spit, but it’s optional.
Step 2: Make the Spice Rub
Mix together your spices in a small bowl. A simple and flavorful rub includes:
– Paprika (for color and a mild smoky flavor)
– Garlic powder or garlic salt
– Onion powder
– Dried thyme
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to cover every inch of the skin.
Step 3: Oil or Butter the Chicken
Brush the chicken with olive oil or melted butter. This not only helps the spice rub stick but also encourages a beautifully browned and crispy skin.
Step 4: Cooking Your Rotisserie Chicken
Using a Rotisserie Oven or Grill
– Secure the chicken onto the rotisserie spit, ensuring it’s balanced.
– Preheat your rotisserie oven or grill to about 350-500°F depending on your equipment.
– Cook the chicken for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes. If using a grill, start at a higher temperature (around 500°F) and then reduce to 350°F after 25 minutes.
– Baste the chicken every 15-20 minutes with melted butter or its own juices to keep the skin moist and flavorful.
– Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: the internal temperature should reach 165°F in the breast and 170-175°F in the dark meat.
– Once done, remove the chicken and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Oven Method (If You Don’t Have a Rotisserie)
– Preheat your oven to 425°F.
– Place the trussed chicken in a roasting pan or cast iron skillet.
– Brush with olive oil and rub with the spice mixture.
– Roast uncovered for 70 to 80 minutes, basting every 15-20 minutes.
– Check the internal temperature to ensure it’s 165°F.
– Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Tips for the Perfect Rotisserie Chicken
– Trussing: Helps the chicken cook evenly and keeps it compact on the spit.
– Basting: Keeps the skin moist and flavorful; don’t skip this step.
– Temperature Control: Maintain a steady cooking temperature to avoid burning or undercooking.
– Resting: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking so the juices redistribute, making the meat juicy.
– Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is safely cooked but still juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Rotisserie chicken is incredibly versatile. Serve it with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or shredded in sandwiches and tacos. You can also use the drippings to make a delicious gravy or dipping sauce.
Cooking rotisserie chicken at home is easier than you think and results in a juicy, flavorful meal that beats store-bought versions. With a few simple ingredients and your rotisserie or oven, you’re just steps away from enjoying a perfect rotisserie chicken any day of the week.
Enjoy your cooking adventure!