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Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make main course. The bright citrus notes of lemon combined with aromatic herbs create a delicious and comforting dish that's perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. This recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken with perfectly crisp skin.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour 15 minutes
Servings
4-6
Ingredients
  • 1 Whole Chicken (about 4 lbs)
  • 1 Lemon
  • 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary
  • 2 sprigs Fresh Thyme
  • 4 Garlic Cloves
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 tablespoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken is crucial for achieving crispy skin.

Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated. Squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken, both inside and out.

Stuff the Cavity

Cut the lemon in half. Place one half inside the chicken cavity along with the rosemary, thyme, and garlic cloves. This will infuse the chicken with flavor from the inside out. You can also add any other herbs you like, such as sage or oregano.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken in a roasting pan. If you have a roasting rack, use it to elevate the chicken and allow for better air circulation. Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

(Approximate values)
Calories: 200
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 0g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

These values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used and the portion size. Removing the skin will significantly reduce the fat content.

← Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Perfect Thanksgiving Roast Turkey →

FAQ

  • How do I know when the chicken is done?

    The best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  • Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

    Yes, you can use dried herbs, but fresh herbs will provide a more vibrant flavor. If using dried herbs, use about 1 teaspoon of each herb.
  • What if the chicken skin starts to burn?

    If the chicken skin starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil to prevent burning. Remove the foil during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to crisp up.