Honey roast chicken

Honey roast chicken features a sweet and spicy glaze that perfectly complements the juicy roasted meat. This streamlined method ensures a delicious main course that's ideal for any occasion.

17 Jan 2026
Cook time 120 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

3 lb whole chicken
3/4 cup chicken gravy
2 garlic cloves

Honey roast chicken is a delightful twist on the classic roast chicken recipe, providing a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. This dish is sure to impress your family and friends at dinner parties or even as a special weeknight meal. Follow these simple steps for a mouthwatering experience.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it's at the right temperature when your chicken is ready to go in.

2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the inside and outside generously with salt and pepper.

3. Prepare the Garlic and Honey Mixture:
- Mince the garlic cloves finely.
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, honey, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Mix well until the ingredients are well combined.

4. Coat the Chicken:
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan or baking dish.
- Pour the honey mixture over the chicken, using a brush or your hands to evenly coat the entire chicken, including the cavity.

5. Roasting:
- Place the chicken in the preheated oven.
- Roast the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the chicken with its juices every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.

6. Chicken Gravy Preparation:
- While the chicken is roasting, heat the chicken gravy in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally to keep it warm.

7. Baste with Gravy:
- About 15 minutes before the chicken is done, remove the chicken from the oven and baste it generously with the chicken gravy. This will add an extra layer of flavor and ensure the chicken is nice and juicy.
- Return the chicken to the oven and finish roasting until fully cooked.

8. Rest the Chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.

9. Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the chicken to a serving platter.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added aroma and presentation.
- Serve the hot honey roast chicken with the remaining warm chicken gravy on the side.

Cooking honey roast chicken is a straightforward process that yields incredibly flavorful results. By following the steps and tips provided, you'll create a dish that is both delicious and impressive. Enjoy the blend of sweet honey and spicy notes in every bite, and don't forget to share it with loved ones!

Honey roast chicken FAQ:

What is the recommended cooking time for a 3 lb whole chicken?

Roast a 3 lb whole chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh.

How should I store leftover honey roast chicken?

Store leftover honey roast chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different type of gravy for serving?

Yes, you can substitute chicken gravy with other gravies like turkey or mushroom gravy based on your preference. Just warm it up before serving.

What should I do if my chicken isn't browning during roasting?

If your chicken isn’t browning, ensure your oven is fully preheated. You can also baste it more frequently with its juices or the gravy to promote browning.

Can I use skinless chicken for this recipe?

Using skinless chicken is not recommended as the skin helps keep the meat moist during roasting. If you prefer skinless, consider adjusting cooking time and moisture levels.

Tips:

- Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking to promote even cooking.

- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to achieve a crispy skin.

- You can add additional herbs like rosemary or thyme inside the cavity for enhanced flavor.

- Rest the chicken for at least 15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

- Pair the dish with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 690kcal
Protein 60g
Carbohydrates 1.60g
Fiber 0.05g
Sugar 0.08g
Fat 50g

Honey roast chicken