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How Long to Cook Whole Chicken

4 cooking methods with times, temperatures, and tips. Safe to 165°F (USDA FSIS).

Roast

Whole Chicken

Cook Time

50-75 min

Set Roast To

425°F

cooking temperature

Safe Internal Temp

165°F

74°C · USDA FSIS

Preheat Roast before cooking

Cooking Tips

  • Pat skin completely dry for crispiest results
  • Truss the legs for even cooking
  • Let rest 15 minutes before carving
  • Check temp in the thickest part of the thigh

Rest for 15 minutes before serving

Resting allows juices to redistribute for a moister result.

Roast Temperature Options

TemperatureCook Time
350°F75-105 min
375°F60-90 min
425°Frecommended50-75 min

Adjust Cooking Time by Weight

Adjust for Weight

64oz
48 oz112 oz

Adjusted cooking time

50-75 min

All 4 Ways to Cook Whole Chicken

Kitchen Timer

Kitchen Timer

63:00

63 min preset

min
:
sec

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook Whole Chicken?

Whole Chicken typically takes 50-75 minutes using the Oven method at 425°F. Times vary by cooking method and weight.

What temperature should Whole Chicken be cooked to?

Whole Chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) according to USDA FSIS guidelines. Always verify with a meat thermometer.

What is the best method to cook Whole Chicken?

Whole Chicken can be prepared using 4 different methods: Roast, Grill (Indirect), Slow Cooker, Instant Pot. The most popular method is Roast.

Can I cook Whole Chicken from frozen?

Yes, you can cook Whole Chicken from frozen. Add approximately 50% more cooking time (multiply by 1.5x). Always verify the internal temperature reaches the safe minimum before serving.

How do I know when Whole Chicken is done?

The most reliable way to check doneness is using an instant-read meat thermometer. Whole Chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Do not rely on color alone.