Lunch & Dinner

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

Name: Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4-5 lb whole chicken; 2 fresh lemons; 4 garlic cloves; 2 tbsp fresh rosemary; 2 tbsp fresh thyme; 2 tbsp fresh parsley; 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

February 21, 2025

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There’s something magical about the aroma of a Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken wafting through your home. Picture this: succulent chicken sizzling in the oven while you prepare a side of buttery mashed potatoes and crisp green beans. Your taste buds are already dancing at the thought! The bright citrus notes intertwined with fragrant herbs create a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.

I remember the first time I made this dish; it was for my family’s Sunday dinner. Everyone gathered around the table, eyes wide and stomachs rumbling. As I pulled that golden-brown bird out of the oven, it felt like I had just won a culinary Oscar. Spoiler alert: I totally did!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will impress anyone at your dinner table
The vibrant herbs and zesty lemon create a stunning visual appeal as well as an amazing aroma while cooking
Plus, you can easily customize it based on your favorite herbs or citrus fruits!
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike

I’ve served this dish to family and friends who have declared it their new favorite meal—definitely a crowd-pleaser!

Essential Ingredients

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

Whole Chicken: A 4-5 pound organic chicken is best for incredible flavor and juiciness.
Fresh Lemons: Use juicy lemons for zesting and juicing; they brighten up the whole dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves pack a flavorful punch; don’t skimp on this one!
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and parsley work wonders together; choose what you love best.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in your roasted chicken.
Vegetables (optional): Carrots and potatoes add heartiness; toss them in for extra flavor!

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

Let’s Make It Together

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy inside.

Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and finely chopped herbs until well combined.

Rub That Flavor In!: Pat your chicken dry with paper towels. Generously rub the marinade all over the chicken—don’t forget under the skin!

Add Aromatics Inside: Stuff some halved lemons and extra herb sprigs inside the cavity of your chicken to infuse even more flavor during roasting.

Roast Away!: Place the seasoned chicken in a roasting pan. Roast for about 1 hour 20 minutes or until juices run clear when pierced at the thigh.

Rest Before Serving: Once done, let your Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute!

Now you’re ready to serve this beauty! Pair it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or fluffy rice for an unforgettable meal.

When life gives you lemons… roast some chicken! Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish that brings families together over delicious food and laughter.

You Must Know

This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience
The zesty aroma and golden-brown skin will make your kitchen feel like a gourmet restaurant
Plus, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, making every meal special

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Season the chicken with herbs while it comes to room temperature. Roast it until golden brown, then let it rest before carving.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can also add lemon slices inside the chicken for extra flavor and moisture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F for safety and juiciness
Letting the chicken rest helps retain moisture, making each bite succulent
For extra flavor, marinate overnight if possible your taste buds will thank you!

I remember the first time I made this Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken; my friends couldn’t stop raving about it! They even asked for seconds what a delicious compliment!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken for Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken?

Using frozen chicken is possible but thaw it completely before seasoning and roasting.

What side dishes pair well with Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken?

Roasted vegetables and garlic mashed potatoes make excellent companions for this flavorful dish.

How can I ensure my chicken stays juicy?

Brining the chicken before cooking helps keep it moist and flavorful throughout the roasting process.