Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken with Herbs

 

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zest and juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels. Place it on a cutting board, breast side up. Tuck the wings underneath and tie the legs together with kitchen twine for even cooking.

3. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped rosemary, thyme, oregano, olive oil, salt, and pepper. This will be your flavorful marinade.

4. Marinate the Chicken: Rub the chicken inside and out with the marinade. Ensure the entire surface is well-coated. You can also gently lift the skin and rub some marinade directly onto the meat for extra flavor.

5. Truss the Chicken: Trussing the chicken (tying the legs together) helps it cook more evenly and maintains its shape. If you're not comfortable trussing, you can skip this step.

6. Roast in the Oven: Place the marinated chicken on a roasting pan or a baking dish. Roast it 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 20-30 minutes for a juicy and flavorful result.

7. Let it Rest: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

8. Carve and Serve: Carve the chicken into serving pieces. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

9. Optional Gravy: If desired, you can use the pan drippings to make a simple gravy. Skim off excess fat, add a bit of flour to the remaining juices, and whisk until smooth. Gradually add chicken broth and simmer until thickened.

10. Enjoy: Serve the lemon garlic roasted chicken with a drizzle of pan juices or gravy, and savor the delicious blend of herbs and citrus.

This Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken with Herbs is a flavorful and aromatic dish that's perfect for a family dinner or special occasions. Enjoy the tender and juicy chicken with the delightful combination of herbs and citrus!