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Roasting a chicken can be one of the most satisfying and flavourful meals you can make at home. Whether you're preparing it for a cosy family dinner or a special gathering, the magic lies in the seasoning and the perfect balance of spices. When paired with the right herbs and spices, roasted chicken can be both simple to prepare and absolutely delicious.
One brand you can always trust for top-quality, mouthwatering results is Robertsons. Known for its rich heritage of delivering the finest herbs and spice blends, Robertsons has been famous for flavour for 100 years, helping turn every meal into an aromatic masterpiece. In this blog, we offer essential tips for perfectly roasting chicken and show you how to incorporate Robertsons spices into your recipe to guarantee a consistent, flavourful result.
For 100 years, Robertsons has been synonymous with quality and flavour in South African kitchens. From humble beginnings to becoming a household name, Robertsons has earned the trust of cooks across the country for one simple reason: they deliver only the finest, purest herbs and spices. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, Robertsons spice combinations make it easy to create restaurant-quality meals at home.
With over 60 different types of flavours and combinations, Robertsons offers a vast range of spice mixes that elevate the taste of any dish. For roasting chicken, there are a variety of spice blends to choose from; Robertson’s has something to suit every taste.
#1 - Choosing the Right Chicken
The foundation of any great roast chicken starts with selecting the right bird. Always opt for fresh, free-range, or organic chicken if possible. These options tend to have better flavour and are often raised without antibiotics or hormones, making them the healthier choice. When selecting your chicken, look for a bird with firm, smooth skin and an even shape to ensure even cooking.
#2 - Prepping the Chicken
Proper preparation is key to ensuring your chicken turns out juicy. Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels to achieve a crispy skin during roasting. You can also brine the chicken in a saltwater solution for a few hours before cooking to help it retain moisture. For added flavour, marinate the chicken overnight with a mix of olive oil, garlic salt, lemon, and a blend of herbs like rosemary and thyme.
#3 - Roasting Temperature and Timing
The ideal temperature for roasting chicken is 180°C. Cooking times will vary depending on the size of the bird, but a general rule is 20 minutes per 500g of chicken. For example, a 1.5 kg chicken will need approximately 1.5 hours in the oven. Always check the internal temperature to ensure that it’s fully cooked—this should reach 75°C at the thickest part of the chicken (usually the thigh). Rest the chicken for at least 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.
#4 - Perfect Spice Mix for Roast Chicken
One of the easiest ways to infuse incredible flavour into your roast chicken is by using Robertsons spices. For a classic flavour, try Robertsons Barbecue Spice, which adds a smoky and zingy taste. If you’re craving something more aromatic, a combination of Robertsons Masterblends Zesty Lemon and Herb creates a fresh, zesty profile that works beautifully with roasted chicken.
To apply the spice mix, simply rub the seasoning all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. Don’t forget to season the inside of the cavity as well for extra flavour! For more roast chicken revelations, read Roast Chicken: The Full Potential of A Classic Dish now.
#5 - Even Roasting
To ensure your chicken roasts evenly, make sure it is placed on a rack in a roasting pan. This allows air to circulate around the bird, helping it cook uniformly. Baste the chicken every 30 minutes with its own juices to keep the meat moist. Once the chicken is done, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to settle and ensure every slice is tender and juicy. Get more expert tips, read our blog Ten Top Tips For Perfect Roast Chicken now.
Robertsons spices aren’t just for seasoning the chicken; they can be used creatively throughout the entire cooking process. If you want to experiment with different flavour profiles, here are a few ways to incorporate Robertsons herbs:
Balance your chicken’s flavour with Robertsons thyme, rosemary, and paprika. These herbs add a classic aromatic taste that complements the savoury flavour of the chicken. Layer these herbs with garlic and lemon to create a depth of flavour that will keep your guests coming back for more.
If you love a bold, smoky flavour, use Robertsons garlic and paprika combination. It’ll give your chicken a slightly spicy, savoury kick with a beautifully crisp skin. Get more culinary inspiration, read our blog Delicious Ways To Flavour Your Roast Chicken now.
Once your roast chicken is out of the oven and resting, it’s time to think about sides and pairings. Here are some quick and easy options that will complement your perfectly roasted chicken:
Roasted Vegetables: Roast some seasonal vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or Brussels sprouts. The natural sweetness of these vegetables will pair perfectly with the savoury chicken.
Couscous or Rice Pilaf: A simple couscous or rice pilaf, flavoured with a dash of Robertsons spices, is a great side to soak up all the delicious juices from the chicken.
Salads: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, citrus, and a simple vinaigrette will provide a nice contrast to the rich flavours of the roast chicken.
Wine Pairing: For wine lovers, a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spice combinations for unique roasted chicken variations. From spicy Cajun flavours to citrusy lemon-infused chicken, Robertsons offers a wide range of blends to suit every palate.
With Robertsons, you can easily create mouthwatering meals with minimal effort. Experiment with Robertsons wide variety of seasonings and discover a new favourite roast chicken recipe. Share your culinary creations with us—whether you’re using a BBQ spice mix or exploring new flavour profiles, we’d love to hear how Robertsons spices helped bring your roasted chicken to life!
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