Roast Chicken with Apples is a comforting fall dinner made with juicy roasted chicken, sweet apples, onions, garlic, and fresh herbs. The apples caramelize as they roast, adding a delicious sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
Why This Recipe Works
- Juicy, tender roasted chicken
- Sweet caramelized apples
- Simple herbs and seasonings
- Perfect for fall and holiday dinners
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, about 4–5 lbs
- 3 apples, cored and sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter, softened
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon, quartered
How to Make Roast Chicken with Apples
- Preheat the oven: Heat the oven to 425°F.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and place it in a roasting pan. Rub the softened butter over the skin.
- Make the seasoning: Mix olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture over the chicken, including underneath the skin if desired.
- Prepare the apples and onions: Arrange the sliced apples, onion, and garlic around the chicken. Place the lemon quarters inside the chicken cavity.
- Add broth: Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan.
- Roast: Roast uncovered for 20 minutes at 425°F. Reduce the temperature to 375°F and continue roasting for about 50–70 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken.
- Check for doneness: The chicken is ready when the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F and the juices run clear.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15–20 minutes. Slice and serve with the roasted apples, onions, and pan juices.
Tips for the Best Roast Chicken with Apples
- Use firm apples such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith.
- Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning for crispier skin.
- Do not overcrowd the roasting pan.
- Baste the chicken with pan juices during roasting for extra flavor.
- Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
Final Thoughts
This Roast Chicken with Apples is juicy, flavorful, and full of cozy fall flavors. The combination of savory herbs, tender chicken, caramelized apples, and roasted onions makes it perfect for family dinners and holiday tables.
