Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C)
Remove the chicken from packaging
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels
Remove giblets from the cavity
Place the chicken on a roasting pan or baking dish
Season the chicken inside and out with salt and pepper
Add herbs, garlic, lemon, or butter if desired
Tie the legs together if desired
Tuck the wing tips under the chicken
Place the chicken breast-side up in the oven
Roast for 20 minutes
Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C)
Continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh
Baste occasionally if desired
Let the chicken rest for 10 to 15 minutes before carving