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Lemon Garlic Roast Chicken

4.5 · 18 reviewsRecipe card by Sean CoateEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 20, 2026
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Lemon Garlic Roast Chicken — Dinner & Mains recipePin it

Total time

60 min

Servings

8

Calories

252.2

Category

Dinner & Mains

This Lemon Garlic Roast Chicken is a classic, fuss-free recipe that delivers juicy, flavorful meat with a crispy golden skin. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special Sunday roast, it comes together in under an hour with simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Makes 8 servings

  • 1 chicken
  • 1 lemon
  • 3 garlic
  • 1 dried fine herb
  • 2 lemon juice

Method

  1. Season chicken with herbs, salt and pepper.

  2. Place 1/2 of lemon slices and 2/3 of garlic in roasting pan.

  3. Loosen chicken skin over breasts; push remaining lemon and garlic slices under the skin.

  4. Place chicken over lemon and garlic in pan.

  5. Sprinkle with lemon juice. Roast at 400 F for approximately 45 minutes per kg. or until juices run clear when chicken is pierced with a fork.

Cook's notes

  • For extra crispiness, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning.
  • Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes after roasting to lock in juices.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the brightest flavor.

Easy swaps

  • Instead of dried fine herb, use 1 tsp dried thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning
  • Instead of lemon juice, use 2 tbsp white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar
  • Instead of garlic, use 1 tsp garlic powder (if fresh is unavailable)

Frequently asked

Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, adjust the roasting time to 25-30 minutes for bone-in pieces or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The juices should run clear when pierced with a fork at the thickest part of the thigh, or use a meat thermometer to reach 165°F.

Can I add vegetables to the roasting pan?

Absolutely! Add chopped carrots, potatoes, or onions around the chicken for a one-pan meal.

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