How to Bake a Chicken on a Cookie Sheet

Chicken is very versatile and can be prepared in a variety of ways.

Baking a whole chicken on a cookie sheet is simple. It is important to properly prepare the chicken for cooking. Wash the chicken thoroughly, season it well and monitor the temperature. Some people like to leave the chicken skin on, but if you are counting calories, you may want to remove the skin. If you cook the chicken skinless, you will want to baste it often to avoid it drying out.

Things You'll Need

• 1 whole chicken
• Salt and pepper
• Herbs
• Olive oil
• Knife
• Marinade bag
• Cookie sheet
• Oven
• Thermometer

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350-375 degrees F.

2. Remove the chicken from the wrapping and take out the innards that may still be inside. Rinse the entire chicken under cool water, then use a paper towel to damp dry. Place the chicken inside the marinade bag.

3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken then add your seasonings. Mix the salt, pepper and the herbs in the bag. Close the bag and shake well. Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes.

4. Place the chicken on the cookie sheet and put into the oven, baking uncovered for at least 1 to 1 1/2 hours. The skin should be cooked to a golden brown color.

5. Insert the thermometer into the chicken. When done, the chicken needs to be between 165 and 180 degrees at its thickest part (thigh area).

6. Cut the chicken by making a small cut into the thigh area. If the meat is white, and clear juices flow, the chicken is done.

7. Remove the chicken and allow it to rest on the counter for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

References

• "101 Things to Do With Chicken" (2007) by Donna Kelly and Stephanie Ashcraft
• Cook Eat Share: Recipes: Baked Chicken Cookie Sheet