Sage Apple Roasted Chicken Recipe

Whether your Thanksgiving is pared down this year and you’re looking for a delicious alternative to turkey, or you just want a delicious new way to enjoy your bird (turkey or chicken), this is my absolute favorite way to roast a bird!

The directions are the same for turkey or chicken- the cooking time differs, so make sure you know how big your bird is, and please, goodness PLEASE, use a thermometer (into the thickest part of the thigh, not touching the bone).

How long to cook a whole chicken:

• Chicken needs to be cooked about 20 minutes per pound at 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• For a 4-5 pound chicken, cook for 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes.
• For a larger 6-7 pound chicken, cook for 2 hours to 2 hours and 20 minutes.
• If you start at a higher heat, you can cook for less per pound- around 15 minutes.
• Make sure to always test the internal temperature at the thigh and ensure it is at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (juices should also run clear).

How long to cook a turkey:

• Turkey needs to be cooked longer than chicken, around 13 minutes per pound at 325-350 degrees Farenheit.
• I prefer, just like with chicken, to start hot to cook the skin, and then low and slow to cook through.
• A smaller, 11-12 pound turkey will take around 2 hours and 20 minutes to 2 hours and 30 minutes to cook.
• A medium, 13-15 pound turkey will take around 2 hours and 45 minutes to 3 hours and 15 minutes.
• A larger, 16-18 pound turkey will take around 3 hours and 20 minutes to 3 hours and 40 minutes.

How to test the temperature of a turkey: Test the internal temperature of a turkey at the thickest part of the thigh and breast, not touching the bone and ensure it is at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (juices should also run clear).

Ok, let’s dress this bird up!

Print