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Roast Chicken with Garlic, Lemon, and Fresh Herbs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 284 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This classic roast chicken recipe yields a perfectly golden, juicy bird infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon. The simple seasoning and roasting technique create a delicious, comforting main dish perfect for a family meal or special occasion.


Ingredients

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Herbs and Aromatics

  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 4 whole garlic cloves
  • 1 lemon, halved


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a hot environment for roasting the chicken evenly and achieving a crispy skin.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Rinse the whole chicken under cool water and thoroughly pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps to get a crispy roast.
  3. Season Chicken: Rub extra virgin olive oil all over the chicken, coating the skin evenly. Then season generously with salt and black pepper both inside the cavity and on the surface.
  4. Stuff the Cavity: Place the garlic cloves, lemon halves, and fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs inside the chicken’s cavity to impart aromatic flavors during roasting.
  5. Roast Chicken: Position the chicken breast-side up on a roasting pan. Place it in the oven and roast for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. The chicken is done when golden brown and the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. Resting allows juices to redistribute for moist meat. Optionally, drizzle with pan drippings before serving.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Resting the chicken before carving helps retain its juices.
  • For extra crispy skin, let the chicken sit uncovered in the refrigerator for several hours prior to roasting.
  • Save pan drippings to make a delicious gravy if desired.
  • Let the lemon and herbs inside the cavity infuse the chicken with subtle aromatic flavors.