Dinner · September 29, 2026 · 3 min read

Dijon Roast Chicken

A simple, flavorful roast chicken for a family dinner, with leftovers ready for another meal.

This simple and delicious meal has become a monthly—and sometimes even a weekly—staple. It packs protein, great flavor, and timely cooking and cleanup into one delicious dish. Enjoy with a side of potatoes and salad the first night, then reinvent leftovers into quesadillas, sandwiches, or fried rice!

Ingredients

1 whole chicken, approximately 3–4 pounds
¼ cup Dijon mustard
4–6 tablespoons softened butter (room temperature) or olive oil
2 teaspoons sea salt, plus more as needed
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Seasoning: choose one

2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
Or: 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if available), 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, 2 teaspoons dried oregano, and 3 minced garlic cloves

Directions

Heat the oven to 425°F.
Pat the chicken thoroughly dry and place it in a roasting pan (I love using our cast iron).
Coat the chicken in softened butter or olive oil. Lift the skin and rub butter on the meat, allowing the skin to trap it and help keep the bird moist.
Rub the Dijon mustard over the entire chicken, including beneath the skin over the breast where possible.
Season with Italian seasoning or the thyme, rosemary, oregano, and garlic mixture. Add salt and pepper.
Roast for 20 minutes at 425°F. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F and continue roasting for approximately 50–70 minutes, or until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F.
Allow the chicken to rest for 10–15 minutes before carving. Enjoy!

May your day be filled with what is beautiful and good ~ Caitlyn