Delicious Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Recipe

The aroma of lemon herb roasted chicken wafting through your kitchen can turn even the most mundane evening into a feast. Picture it  a golden brown bird, glistening with citrus goodness, and surrounded by a medley of vegetables that practically beg to be devoured.

This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience. I recall the first time I made this for my family. The moment they walked in, their faces lit up as if they were entering a five star restaurant. Let’s just say the clean plates spoke volumes!

I still remember my cousin’s shocked expression when he discovered how simple this dish was to make. The way he inhaled the savory aroma before even taking a bite? Priceless.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Whole Chicken: A 4-5 pound bird works best; look for one that feels firm and heavy for its size.
• Fresh Lemons: Choose bright yellow lemons that feel heavy for their size; they yield more juice.
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme and Rosemary): Opt for vibrant green herbs; their fragrance adds depth to the dish.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is key; use whole cloves for roasting or minced for a punchier flavor.
• Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling over the chicken and vegetables.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate flavors; opt for kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
• Vegetables (Carrots and Potatoes): Select fresh veggies; they roast beautifully alongside the chicken, soaking up all those flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grab a roasting pan or large baking dish; make sure it’s big enough for your glorious bird. Rinse your whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

Seasoning Time

In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped thyme, rosemary leaves stripped from stems, salt, and pepper. Rub this fragrant mixture all over your chicken like you’re giving it a spa treatment.

Squeeze That Zest

Juice two lemons into another bowl. Pour half of this juice over the seasoned chicken – don’t skimp! Cut the other lemons into quarters and place them inside the cavity along with a few garlic cloves for extra flavor.

Add Your Veggies

Chop up carrots and potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before arranging them around the seasoned chicken in your roasting pan.

Roast Away

Slide your creation into the preheated oven. Roast for 1 hour or until the skin turns crispy and golden brown while juices run clear when pierced between the drumstick and body.

Rest Before Serving

Once done roasting, remove from oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This ensures juicy meat that won’t dry out when you slice into it.

Now you’ve created a stunning lemon herb roasted chicken that looks like it jumped straight out of a gourmet cookbook!

Dinner time never tasted so good!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken for at least an hour to enhance flavor. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and roast until golden brown, about one hour. This sequence ensures juicy chicken with crispy skin.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out herbs or add vegetables, like potatoes or carrots, to roast alongside the chicken. A splash of white wine can also elevate the dish’s flavor profile beautifully.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover roasted chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Sharing this recipe brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter and delicious food filled the air, creating lasting bonds around the dining table.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and roasting.

What’s the best way to serve Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken?

Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How do I know when my chicken is done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.

Print

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

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• Author: Doorecipes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8

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Description

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is a flavorful, zesty dish that transforms any meal into a festive occasion. With its crispy skin and juicy meat, it’s sure to impress.

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Ingredients

• Whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
• Fresh lemons
• Fresh thyme and rosemary
• Garlic cloves
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Carrots and potatoes

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse and pat dry the chicken.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken.
3. Juice two lemons; pour half over the chicken. Quarter the other lemons and place them inside the cavity with garlic cloves.
4. Chop carrots and potatoes; toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper before arranging around the chicken in the roasting pan.
5. Roast for 1 hour or until the skin is golden brown and juices run clear when pierced.
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/8 roasted chicken (approximately 140g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken for at least an hour before roasting. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or a splash of white wine for extra depth.