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Brown Bag Chicken

This brown bag chicken is a remarkably simple way to achieve a perfectly succulent roast with very little effort. By cooking the bird inside a paper bag, the moisture is trapped, effectively steaming the meat in its own juices while the Hungarian paprika creates a beautiful, smoky depth of colour and flavour. It is a brilliant technique for anyone looking to master a reliable, juicy roast without the need for constant basting or added fats.

As a diabetes-friendly main course, this dish focuses on lean protein and aromatic herbs rather than heavy oils or sugary glazes. The inclusion of fresh rosemary and onion provides a wonderful fragrance that permeates the meat from the inside out. Serve this wholesome roast with a side of steamed seasonal greens or a crisp salad for a nutritious and comforting family dinner.

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Ingredients for Brown Bag Chicken

  • One 3- to 1.6kg chicken

  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

  • 1 onion, cut in half

  • 4 sprigs fresh rosemary

  • 1 tablespoon ground hot Hungarian paprika

How to make Brown Bag Chicken

Preheat the oven to 204°C.

Rinse the chicken, pat dry, and remove any excess fat. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper to taste inside and out. Place the onion and rosemary inside the cavity and rub the outside of the chicken with the paprika.

Lay a standard-size brown paper grocery bag on its side and place the chicken inside, tying the top of the bag closed with kitchen string. Place the bagged chicken on a rimmed baking sheet in the lower third of the oven, so you have plenty of room at the top. Cook for 1 1/2 hours, remove the chicken from the oven, and carefully open the bag to release the steam. Check for doneness by inserting an internal thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh; it should read about 74°C and the juices should run clear when the thigh is pierced with the tip of a small knife. Let rest for about 10 minutes before carving. Slice the breasts and cut the wings, legs, and thighs into pieces. Serve warm.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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