Lemon Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken

 

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Make sure the oven rack is in the middle position.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a crispy skin.
   • Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, both inside and outside.

3. Prepare the Herb Mixture:

   • In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
   • Add olive oil to the herb mixture and mix well to create a paste.

4. Rub the Chicken:

   • Carefully lift the skin of the chicken and rub the herb mixture underneath, directly onto the meat. This adds flavor to the chicken while keeping the skin crispy.
   • Rub the remaining herb mixture on the outside of the chicken.

5. Stuff the Chicken:

   • Place sliced lemons inside the cavity of the chicken. This adds a bright, citrusy flavor and helps keep the chicken moist.

6. Truss the Chicken (Optional):

   • Trussing helps the chicken cook evenly. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine if desired.

7. Roast the Chicken:

   • Place the chicken on a roasting pan or a baking dish with a wire rack.
   • Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with pan juices every 30 minutes for added moisture and flavor.

8. Rest and Serve:

   • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy.

9. Garnish and Enjoy:

   • Garnish the roasted chicken with additional fresh herbs and lemon slices.
   • Carve and serve the lemon garlic herb roasted chicken with your favorite sides.

Tips:

• You can customize the herb mixture with your favorite herbs and spices.
• Serve the roasted chicken with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Save the pan drippings to make a delicious gravy or drizzle over the chicken for extra flavor.