How Long to Cook 2 Whole Chickens? (A Guide for Perfect Chicken Every Time)

How Long To Cook 2 Whole Chickens?

There’s nothing quite like the smell of a roasted chicken in the oven. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, a whole roasted chicken is a delicious and impressive dish. But how long do you cook two whole chickens?

The cooking time for two whole chickens will vary depending on the size of the chickens, the temperature of your oven, and your desired doneness. In general, you can expect to cook two 3-pound chickens for about 2 hours at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it’s always best to check the internal temperature of the chickens with a meat thermometer to make sure they’re cooked through.

In this article, we’ll discuss the factors that affect cooking time, provide a general cooking time guideline, and offer tips for cooking two whole chickens perfectly.

Temperature Time Notes
350 degrees F 2 hours For a juicy, flavorful chicken
375 degrees F 1 hour 45 minutes For a crispy, browned chicken
400 degrees F 1 hour 30 minutes For a quick and easy chicken

Factors Affecting Cooking Time

The cooking time for two whole chickens will vary depending on a number of factors, including:

  • Size of the chickens. The larger the chicken, the longer it will take to cook. A 5-pound chicken will take about 2 hours to cook, while a 7-pound chicken will take about 2.5 hours.
  • Cooking method. The cooking method you choose will also affect the cooking time. Roasting a chicken in the oven will take longer than baking it in a crock pot or grilling it.
  • Temperature of the oven. The higher the oven temperature, the faster the chicken will cook. A chicken cooked at 350 degrees Fahrenheit will take longer to cook than a chicken cooked at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Whether the chickens are stuffed. Stuffing a chicken will add extra cooking time. Plan on adding about 30 minutes to the cooking time for a stuffed chicken.

Recommended Cooking Times

The following are recommended cooking times for two whole chickens, based on the factors listed above:

  • Roasting in the oven. Roast a 5-pound chicken at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Roast a 7-pound chicken at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Baking in the crock pot. Bake a 5-pound chicken in a crock pot on low for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake a 7-pound chicken in a crock pot on low for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Grilling. Grill a 5-pound chicken over medium heat for 30-40 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Grill a 7-pound chicken over medium heat for 40-50 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Deep frying. Deep fry a 5-pound chicken in 350-degree Fahrenheit oil for 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Deep fry a 7-pound chicken in 350-degree Fahrenheit oil for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

The cooking time for two whole chickens will vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the chickens, the cooking method, the temperature of the oven, and whether the chickens are stuffed. By following the recommended cooking times listed above, you can ensure that your chickens are cooked to perfection every time.

Here are some additional tips for cooking two whole chickens:

  • Preheat your oven to the correct temperature before you start cooking. This will help to ensure that the chickens cook evenly.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chickens. The internal temperature of the chickens should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit before they are safe to eat.
  • Let the chickens rest for a few minutes before you carve them. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy chicken.

With a little planning and care, you can easily cook two whole chickens to perfection. So what are you waiting for? Get cooking!

How Long To Cook 2 Whole Chickens?

The cooking time for two whole chickens will vary depending on the size of the chickens, the temperature of your oven, and the method of cooking you choose. However, as a general rule, you can expect to cook two whole chickens for about 2-2.5 hours at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Here are some tips for cooking two whole chickens:

  • Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Rinse the chickens inside and out and pat them dry.
  • Season the chickens with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
  • Place the chickens in a roasting pan, breast-side up.
  • Pour 1 cup of chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan.
  • Cover the roasting pan with aluminum foil.
  • Roast the chickens for 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Remove the chickens from the oven and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

Here are some additional tips for cooking two whole chickens:

  • If you are cooking the chickens in a convection oven, reduce the cooking time by about 25%.
  • If you are cooking the chickens on a grill, cook them over indirect heat for 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • If you are cooking the chickens in a slow cooker, cook them on low for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken

Here are a few tips for cooking perfectly cooked chicken:

  • Preheat your oven to the correct temperature. This is essential for ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. This is the best way to ensure that the chicken is cooked to the proper temperature.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy chicken.

Here are some additional tips for cooking chicken:

  • Choose a meaty cut of chicken. This will ensure that the chicken is juicy and flavorful.
  • Marinate the chicken in a flavorful marinade. This will help to tenderize the meat and add flavor.
  • Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the safe internal temperature for chicken.
  • Do not overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy chicken.

Safety Precautions

When cooking chicken, it is important to take the following safety precautions:

  • Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This is the safe internal temperature for chicken.
  • Do not eat raw or undercooked chicken. Raw or undercooked chicken can contain harmful bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
  • Keep cooked chicken separate from raw chicken. This will help to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling chicken. This will help to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.

Here are some additional safety tips for cooking chicken:

  • Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. This is the best way to ensure that the chicken is cooked to the proper temperature.
  • Cook the chicken on a clean surface. This will help to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling chicken. This will help to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.

Cooking two whole chickens can be a daunting task, but it is definitely doable with the right information. By following the tips in this article, you can cook two perfectly cooked chickens that are sure to impress your guests.

How long does it take to cook two whole chickens?

The cooking time for two whole chickens will vary depending on the size of the chickens, the cooking method, and the desired doneness.

  • Small chickens (3-4 pounds each) will take about 1 hour 30 minutes to cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Medium chickens (5-6 pounds each) will take about 2 hours to cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Large chickens (7-8 pounds each) will take about 2 hours 30 minutes to cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit when it is done.

What is the best way to cook two whole chickens?

There are many different ways to cook two whole chickens, but some of the most popular methods include:

  • Oven-roasted chickens are cooked in a preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a great option for a simple and delicious meal.
  • Braised chickens are cooked in a liquid, such as broth or wine, until the meat is tender and flavorful. This is a great option for a more flavorful and moist chicken.
  • Grilled chickens are cooked over direct heat until the skin is crispy and the meat is cooked through. This is a great option for a summer meal.

What are some tips for cooking two whole chickens?

Here are a few tips for cooking two whole chickens:

  • Preheat your oven to the correct temperature before you start cooking. This will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough.
  • Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the chicken will be more flavorful.

What are some common mistakes people make when cooking two whole chickens?

Some common mistakes people make when cooking two whole chickens include:

  • Not preheating the oven. This can lead to uneven cooking and dry chicken.
  • Not using a meat thermometer. This can lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken.
  • Overcooking the chicken. This can lead to dry and tough chicken.
  • Not letting the chicken rest. This can lead to juices being lost and the chicken being dry.

What are some side dishes that go well with roasted chickens?

There are many different side dishes that go well with roasted chickens, but some of the most popular include:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Salad
  • Gravy
  • Bread

What are some tips for storing leftover chicken?

Here are a few tips for storing leftover chicken:

  • Let the chicken cool completely before storing it. This will help prevent bacteria growth.
  • Store the chicken in an airtight container. This will help keep the chicken fresh.
  • Refrigerate the chicken for up to three days. You can also freeze the chicken for up to three months.

What are some tips for reheating leftover chicken?

Here are a few tips for reheating leftover chicken:

  • Reheat the chicken in a low oven until warmed through. This will help prevent the chicken from drying out.
  • Add a little moisture to the chicken, such as chicken broth or water. This will help keep the chicken moist.
  • Don’t reheat the chicken more than once. This can lead to the growth of bacteria.

    the best way to cook two whole chickens is to roast them in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the chickens are cooked evenly and thoroughly, and that they retain their moisture. Be sure to let the chickens rest for at least 5 minutes before carving them, and enjoy!

Author Profile

Kelsey Hammons
Kelsey Hammons
I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.

I hope to capture all of my life’s adventures of living in the windy city. AKA the food I cook, my journey to the Chicago Marathon, the books I read and the trashy TV shows I watch. I’m a health-nut, book-worm and exercise fiend.

Join me, Kelsey, on this exciting journey as I embrace the challenges and joys of my new life in Chicago. From mastering the art of healthy cooking to hitting the pavement for marathon training, my blog is a window into my world of self-discovery and fun.

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