What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This lemon and herb roasted chicken is a simple, flavorful dish that will quickly become a family favorite. You’ll love how easy it is to make while still tasting like something special.
- Juicy and tender meat thanks to a quick brine and slow roasting, keeping every bite moist.
- Bright, zesty flavors from fresh lemon and herbs that make the chicken taste light and invigorating.
- Crispy golden skin that adds the perfect crunch, making it hard to stop at just one piece.
Recipe
This lemon and herb roasted chicken is a classic dish that’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh herbs and zesty lemon creates a deliciously aromatic meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
- 2 lemons (1 sliced, 1 juiced)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken dry and place it in a roasting pan.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon slices and any remaining herbs.
- Roast for 1 hour 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Notes:
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Use kitchen twine to tie the legs for even cooking.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cooking Time: 1 hr 15 mins
Serving: 4-6
Calories: ~250 per serving
Cuisine: American
Equipment
To make this lemon and herb roasted chicken, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this flavorful dish:
- Roasting pan or baking dish
- Meat thermometer
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Aluminum foil (optional)
Nutrition
This roasted chicken is packed with flavor and nutrients. Here’s the breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
What to Serve With This Recipe
I’m a big fan of pairing this lemon and herb roasted chicken with sides that complement its zesty flavors, like garlic mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, works wonders to round out the meal perfectly. Don’t forget a slice of crusty bread to soak up those delicious juices!
Side Dishes
A golden, juicy lemon and herb roasted chicken deserves sides that shine just as bright. I love pairing it with garlicky roasted potatoes, their crisp edges soaking up the herby juices. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a fresh bite, while buttery green beans keep things light. Don’t forget warm, crusty bread—it’s perfect for mopping up every last bit of flavor. Trust me, these sides make the meal.
Wine Pairings
When you’ve got a lemon and herb roasted chicken on the table, picking the right wine can turn a great meal into something truly special. I love a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc—its zesty acidity matches the lemon perfectly. If you prefer red, go for a light Pinot Noir; it won’t overpower the herbs. Either way, you’ll elevate every bite. Cheers to that!
