Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (4–5 pounds)
Herb and Lemon Mixture
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 2 lemons (1 zested and juiced, 1 quartered)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
Optional
- 1 small onion, quartered (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting the chicken perfectly.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry thoroughly using paper towels to help the skin crisp up when roasted.
- Mix Herb Butter: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, parsley, salt, black pepper, and paprika until well combined.
- Apply Mixture: Rub this herb mixture all over the entire chicken, including under the skin where you can reach, to infuse flavors deeply.
- Stuff the Chicken: Place the quartered lemon and onion inside the chicken cavity to add moisture and aroma during roasting.
- Secure the Legs: Tie the chicken legs together with kitchen twine to promote even cooking and maintain shape (optional).
- Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet and roast uncovered in the preheated oven for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Baste Occasionally: If desired, baste the chicken once or twice with the pan juices during roasting to keep it moist and add flavor.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and juicy meat.
- Serve: Carve the chicken and serve warm, spooning some of the pan juices over the slices for extra flavor.
Notes
- Resting the chicken after roasting ensures the meat stays juicy and tender.
- Add potatoes or carrots around the chicken in the roasting pan for an easy one-pan meal.
- If fresh herbs aren’t available, substitute with 1 teaspoon each of dried rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator and will keep well for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, American
- Diet: Gluten Free