Lemon and Herb Roasted Chicken

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Lemon and Herb Roasted Chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and flavorful. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

• Juicy and tender chicken that’s packed with bright, zesty lemon and aromatic herbs.
• Easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• Versatile and customizable—pair it with your favorite sides or use leftovers in salads, sandwiches, or soups.

Recipe

Lemon and herb roasted chicken is a classic dish that combines zesty citrus flavors with aromatic herbs for a succulent and flavorful meal. This recipe is simple yet impressive, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
• 2 lemons (one sliced, one juiced)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 3 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 onion, quartered
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 potatoes, cut into chunks

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.
5. Stuff the chicken cavity with lemon slices and onion quarters.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and surround it with carrots and potatoes.
7. Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
8. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Notes:

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the herb mixture for 2 hours before roasting.
• Use a meat thermometer to verify the chicken is cooked to perfection.

Time:

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Serving: 4-6

Calories: Approximately 400 per serving

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

This roasted chicken is packed with flavor and nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:

What To Serve With It

I love pairing lemon and herb roasted chicken with sides like garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad, as they complement the dish’s bright flavors perfectly. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, can also elevate the meal, balancing the citrus and herbs beautifully. Don’t forget to add some crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices!

Side Dishes

When you’ve got a juicy lemon and herb roasted chicken ready to go, you’ll want sides that complement its bright, savory flavors without stealing the spotlight. I love pairing it with roasted vegetables—think carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts—tossed in olive oil and a pinch of salt. They caramelize beautifully and soak up the chicken’s juices. A fresh herb salad, like a mix of arugula, parsley, and mint, adds a crisp contrast. Lightly dress it with lemon vinaigrette to echo the chicken’s zing. These sides keep things simple but delicious, letting the star of the meal shine.

Wine Pairings

What’s better than a glass of wine to elevate a meal? When it comes to chicken pairings, I love a crisp white wine to complement the zesty lemon and herbs. A Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand or a Chardonnay from California works wonders, balancing the dish’s brightness with its own fruity notes. If you’re into reds, a light Pinot Noir from Oregon or Burgundy won’t overpower the flavors. Exploring wine regions is part of the fun—it’s like taking a mini trip with every sip. Trust me, the right wine turns a simple roasted chicken into something truly special. Cheers!