Baking a whole chicken is a classic cooking method that results in juicy meat with crispy, golden skin. However, knowing the right baking time and temperature is crucial to achieving perfect results. One of the most common questions is: how long to bake a whole chicken at 350°F?
In this guide, we will break down the timing, techniques, and important tips to help you roast a whole chicken perfectly every time.
How Long to Bake a Whole Chicken at 350°F?
The general rule for baking a whole chicken at 350°F is 20-25 minutes per pound. For example:
- A 3-4 pound chicken will take about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes.
- A 4-5 pound chicken will take approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours.
- A 5-6 pound chicken will take around 2 to 2 hours 15 minutes.
These times are estimates and can vary based on your oven’s accuracy and the chicken’s starting temperature (whether it was chilled or at room temperature). To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, you should always rely on the internal temperature rather than just time.
Ideal Internal Temperature for a Whole Chicken
While cooking time is a helpful guide, the best way to ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of a fully cooked whole chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh, without touching the bone.
Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh or breast to check for doneness. If it hasn’t reached 165°F, continue baking and check the temperature every 10-15 minutes.
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How to Prepare a Whole Chicken for Baking
Before you pop your chicken into the oven, preparation is key for great flavor and texture. Here’s a simple guide to prepping your whole chicken:
1. Clean and Pat Dry the Chicken
After unwrapping your chicken, rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying the skin thoroughly helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior during baking.
2. Season the Chicken Generously
Season the chicken inside and out. You can use a simple mix of salt and pepper, or add flavor with garlic, herbs like rosemary and thyme, and spices. To keep the chicken extra juicy, rub olive oil or melted butter over the skin before seasoning.
3. Stuff the Chicken (Optional)
For extra flavor, stuff the cavity of the chicken with aromatic ingredients like lemon wedges, garlic cloves, and fresh herbs. This adds moisture and infuses the meat with a delicious aroma as it roasts.
4. Truss the Chicken
Trussing, or tying the legs together with kitchen twine, ensures the chicken cooks evenly and prevents the wings and legs from overcooking or drying out.
How to Bake a Whole Chicken at 350°F
Now that your chicken is prepped, here’s a step-by-step guide to baking it:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oven is fully heated before placing the chicken inside to ensure even cooking from the start.
2. Place the Chicken in a Roasting Pan
Place the chicken breast side up on a rack inside a roasting pan. Using a rack elevates the chicken, allowing air to circulate around it for even cooking and preventing the bottom from getting soggy. If you don’t have a rack, you can place the chicken on a bed of vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery to elevate it.
3. Roast the Chicken
Put the chicken in the oven and roast it for 20-25 minutes per pound. Halfway through cooking, you can baste the chicken with its juices or a little melted butter to keep the skin moist and help it brown.
4. Check the Internal Temperature
Start checking the chicken’s internal temperature during the last 20 minutes of the estimated cooking time. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh (avoiding the bone). The chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Let the Chicken Rest
Once the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and flavorful.
Tips for Baking a Whole Chicken at 350°F
- Basting for Moisture: Basting the chicken with its own juices or melted butter every 30 minutes ensures that the skin remains crispy while keeping the meat moist.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is properly cooked is by using a thermometer. This takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures food safety.
- Resting is Crucial: Allowing the chicken to rest for at least 10 minutes before carving ensures that the juices settle into the meat, resulting in tender chicken.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: If you want extra crispy skin, switch your oven to broil for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning the skin.
Should You Cover a Whole Chicken When Baking?
When baking at 350°F, it’s generally best to leave the chicken uncovered. This helps the skin crisp up and turn golden brown. However, if the chicken skin starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent it with aluminum foil during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from over-browning.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Chicken
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the chicken in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Reheating Leftover Chicken
To reheat leftover chicken, place it in a 350°F oven covered with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For smaller portions, the microwave can be used, but it’s best to cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to bake a whole chicken at 350°F?
A whole chicken typically takes 20-25 minutes per pound to bake at 350°F. For example, a 4-pound chicken will take approximately 1 hour 40 minutes to bake.
Can I bake a whole chicken at a higher temperature?
Yes, you can bake a whole chicken at higher temperatures, like 375°F or 400°F, which will reduce the cooking time. However, baking at 350°F allows the chicken to cook evenly, ensuring moist meat and crispy skin.
Should I baste the chicken while it bakes?
Basting is optional, but it helps keep the chicken moist and adds flavor. You can baste with pan juices, melted butter, or even a mixture of broth and herbs.
How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
The best way to know if your chicken is fully cooked is by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
Other Chicken Recipes
- James Martin Butter Chicken
- James Martin Chicken Tarragon
- Mary Berry One-Pot Chicken
- Mary Berry Spatchcock Chicken
- James Martin Chicken Curry
- Jamie Oliver Chicken Pie 5 Ingredients
Final Thoughts
Baking a whole chicken at 350°F is a simple yet rewarding cooking method that produces juicy, flavorful results. With proper preparation and attention to timing, you’ll have a delicious, golden-brown chicken ready to serve. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family meal or a special occasion, this guide ensures your chicken is perfectly baked every time!
