There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a roast chicken wafting through the house on a chilly winter’s evening. Golden, crispy skin. Tender, juicy meat. That first bite of lovingly cooked, home-style goodness. Roast chicken is a timeless classic — the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and warms you from the inside out.
Whether it’s your go-to Sunday dinner or a midweek treat with leftovers for days, mastering the perfect roast chicken is easier than you might think. At Paddock to Pantry, we’re all about making quality home cooking simple — so we’ve pulled together our favourite tips and tricks to help you get it right every time.
Tips and Tricks:
1. Brine Your Chicken for Flavour & Juiciness
The secret to a truly flavourful, juicy roast chicken? Planning ahead. Brining your chicken a day or two before cooking — using a wet brine, dry rub, or marinade — allows the salt to deeply penetrate the meat. This not only adds flavour, but also helps the chicken retain moisture while roasting. It's a small step that makes a big difference.
2. Use Dairy to Tenderise & Caramelise
For next-level tenderness and flavour, try soaking your chicken in buttermilk or yogurt overnight. The natural acids gently break down the proteins, making the meat super tender. Before roasting, brush the skin with clarified butter — the milk sugars encourage caramelisation and deliver that golden, crispy finish we all love.
3. Temper Before You Roast
A cold chicken straight from the fridge won’t cook evenly. Let your chicken rest at room temperature for 30–60 minutes before roasting. This step, called tempering, ensures more even cooking — especially important for larger cuts like whole chickens.
4. Start Hot, Then Cool Down
Begin roasting your chicken in a hot oven (around 220°C) to kickstart browning and crisp up the skin. After 15–20 minutes, reduce the heat to around 180°C and continue roasting until cooked through. This method helps lock in moisture while achieving the perfect roast exterior.
5. Let It Rest
Once you pull your roast chicken from the oven, resist the urge to carve straight away! Let it rest for 10–20 minutes — this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and delicious. Trust us, it’s worth the wait.
Bonus Tip: Skip the Fuss with a Pre-Stuffed Roast Chicken
Want all the flavour with none of the hassle? Shop our Whole Boneless Stuffed Roast Chicken — a crowd favourite that’s perfectly seasoned, prepped, and ready to go. It cooks evenly, slices like a dream, and makes dinner feel effortless (without compromising on taste). Ideal for busy families or first-time roasters!
How to Tell if Your Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked
Not sure when your chicken is done? Here are three easy ways to check:
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Thermometer: Insert into the thickest part of the breast or thigh — it should read at least 75°C (or 160°F).
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Wiggle test: The leg should move freely and feel like it could separate easily from the bird.
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Juice test: Pierce the thigh — if the juices run clear, you’re good to go.
Whether you're new to roasting or a seasoned pro, these simple steps can take your chicken from basic to brilliant. And with premium New Zealand poultry available in our online meat delivery range, getting your hands on a quality chook is easier than ever. Just add your favourite herbs, some seasonal fresh produce, and you’ve got a hearty meal made with love.
At Paddock to Pantry, we deliver comfort, quality, and great value — right to your door.
Browse our range of fresh ingredients, get inspired, and roast like a pro this winter.
