We are finally getting relief from the heat here in SoCal this week. The low 70's is such a treat for us. I know it is nothing in comparison with the weather on the East Coast, but California weather (except for the 3-digit hot weather) is one of the reasons I fell in love with this state. Cooler weather means my oven will be utilized more often. 

ALSO READ: 10 Mouthwatering Chicken Salad Recipes

  While I love my air-fryer, I also love cooking chicken in the oven. This simple oven-roasted chicken is so easy to make.  This is a frugal meal as well as you may have to only buy the whole chicken. All of the herbs and spices may already be in your pantry. I bought my chicken from Aldi for less than $6. You can always consider buying an organic and antibiotic-free chicken. The skin is crispy,  the meat is flavorful, tender, and juicy. What I love about this recipe is having the left-over chicken that you can use with several other recipes such as soups, taco and burrito fillings, sandwiches, and casseroles. You can also use the bones to make your chicken broth!

 Here are some recipes that you can use your left-over roasted chicken:

Pesto Chicken Sandwich

Cajun Chicken Fettucine Pasta

Chicken Stir-Fry

Baked Cheesy Mexican Chicken

Ingredients:

One whole chicken

2 tablespoon coconut oil

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees.

Rinse the chicken (or skip) and pat it dry.

Set the chicken on a plate or cutting board and drizzle with coconut oil

Mix all of the seasoning ingredients together in a separate bowl.

Rub it into the chicken.

Bake the chicken for one hour. The juices must be clear and not pink when you cut into the chicken. 

If the meat is still pink when you cut through it, bake a little longer.

The skin is crispy and the meat is so juicy, flavorful to boot. 

We like to eat this delicious chicken with a side of salad or mixed veggies and brown rice.

 I love dipping it with sweet chili sauce sometimes too.

Did I mention that this roasted chicken is a perfect add-in with salads?