Garlic Lovers Chicken

1 whole chicken (3 to 3-1/2 pounds)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 head garlic, separated into cloves (about 15)


Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the chicken in a roasting pan; set aside.

In a small bowl, mix together the oil, basil, salt, and pepper; brush over the chicken then place the garlic cloves over and inside the chicken.

Roast the chicken for 1-1/2 to 1-3/4 hours, or until the chicken is golden and no pink remains, basting occasionally.

Cut, and serve with the pan juices.