How long to cook whole chicken
Choose a method and size for a practical estimate; cooking times are ranges, not a substitute for checking doneness. How we calculate times.
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Adjust exact weight, thickness or quantity when you need to.
Estimated cooking time
1 hr 23 min – 1 hr 38 min
- Oven temp
- 400°F / 200°C
- Rest
- 15 min
Evidence-informed estimate · Cooking times vary — follow the food-specific completion and food-safety guidance.
- Unstuffed. Stuffing adds 30–45 minutes — cook stuffing separately when possible.
- Times assume the food starts refrigerated, not room temperature.
Whole chicken by method
At typical settings. Air fryer is fastest at 1 hr 18 min – 1 hr 32 min.
| Method | Typical time | Temp |
|---|---|---|
| Oven | 1 hr 23 min – 1 hr 38 min | |
| Air fryer | 1 hr 18 min – 1 hr 32 min | |
| Slow cooker | 4 hr 15 min – 5 hr 45 min |
Whole chicken cooking time by size
| Size | Approximate | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Small | ≈1.2 kg | 1 hr 23 min – 1 hr 38 min |
| Medium | ≈1.6 kg | 1 hr 23 min – 1 hr 38 min |
| Large | ≈2 kg | 1 hr 23 min – 1 hr 38 min |
Fresh vs frozen
Cooking from frozen takes roughly 50% longer and cooks less evenly. These estimates are for a medium.
Fresh / refrigerated
1 hr 23 min – 1 hr 38 min
From frozen
2 hr 5 min – 2 hr 26 min
USDA guidance allows frozen poultry and meat to be cooked without thawing; allow extra time and never thaw at room temperature.
How to know when it's done
Time is an estimate — temperature is the truth. Check the thickest part with an instant-read thermometer: whole chicken is safely done at 165°F / 74°C.
Food-level cooking reference: BBC Good Food — Chicken glossary (checked 2026-08-18). CookCue applies deterministic adjustments; food-safety guidance is sourced separately.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a 1.5 kg chicken take to roast?
About 1 hour 25 minutes at 200°C, plus a 15-minute rest. Always verify 74°C (165°F) between the leg and the body.
Should I roast chicken covered or uncovered?
Uncovered for crisp skin. Tent loosely with foil if the skin browns too fast, then remove it for the last 10 minutes.