Martha Stewart’s No-Effort Trick for Perfect Roasted Chicken Every Time

I would like to state for the record: I did know about the first half of this tip, but I’m embarrassed to admit that I didn’t know the second half. Rather, I knew but sort of forgot, and as a result, I wasn’t consistent in implementing it.

But from now on, it will be standard operating procedure in my kitchen. It’s so easy and so crucial to roasting a perfectly juicy chicken that there’s just no reason not to follow this pro tip.

How To Make an Extra-Juicy Roast Chicken

For starters, taking a second to check the internal temperature of a roasting chicken is a must. And it only takes a few seconds. You'll need a kitchen thermometer for this step, which you can splurge on or find at Aldi for $9.99.

Martha says to roast until the thermometer reads 160°F. You want the chicken to reach 165°F, but it will continue to rise slightly after it comes out of the oven. Removing the chicken a bit early prevents overcooking and dry meat.

That’s the part I knew; this next step is the part that made me facepalm.

Just as essential as getting the chicken to the right internal temperature is allowing the bird to rest before carving. Of course!

If you start slicing too soon, the juices will run all over your cutting board instead of settling back into the meat where you want them. So, give your bird a good 10 to 15 minutes in the roasting pan after removing it from the oven before you start carving.

How to Check Chicken Temperature the Right Way

Using a thermometer correctly is as important as using one in the first place. Thermometers come in dial or digital versions, both of which are great.

To test a chicken's temperature, insert the probe at least two inches into the thickest part of the bird, being careful not to touch the bone. The thickest part of the thigh and between the leg and breast, is the best place to check.

Roasting a whole chicken is one of my favorite weekly meal prep hacks. Depending on the size of your family, one or two chickens can be turned into multiple meals during the week. Use leftovers for a range of recipes, including tacos, pasta, and sandwiches.

So easy, so versatile, and so delicious—roast chicken might be the perfect food, ever. And with Martha's advice, it will be cooked perfectly, too.