Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C)
Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels
Remove any giblets from the cavity
Rub the chicken with oil or melted butter
Season the chicken with salt and pepper
Add optional seasonings like garlic, paprika, thyme, or rosemary
Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or baking dish
Tuck the wing tips under the body
Roast for 15 minutes
Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C)
Continue baking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh
Baste the chicken occasionally if desired
Let the chicken rest for 10 to 15 minutes before carving
Carve and serve