What Is It About Roast Chicken?

I’m genuinely curious.

What is it about this simple meal that is so profoundly delicious, it could almost bring about world peace? I have wondered this since I first learned to make the dish, many moons ago. A housewife staple—a good roast chicken can beckon both husbands and children on their knees, begging for more. It’s that good.

The family dog won’t be too disappointed, either. While we eat, Rosie stands sentinel—waiting for her own juicy bite. Maybe if she’s lucky, a piece will “drop” from our forks—some of us being more '“clumsy” than others.

And can we talk about how easy this meal is? You literally slap some good butter on the bird (it has to be good butter), add some salt, pepper, herbs—and voilà.

Oh, and to make it extra juicy, toss in 2 cups of water, carrots (cut or not), garlic (cut or not) and onions (cut or not). Roast at 375 degrees F for an hour to an hour-and-a-half. And you’re done.

Simple.

Perhaps it’s the combination of ‘simple’ paired with ‘delicious’ that makes this meal so special? Whatever it is, I’m here for it.