Recipe: Lemon Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken

 

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Remove the chicken from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
   • Place the chicken in a roasting pan, ensuring there is enough space around it for even cooking.

3. Season the Chicken:

   • In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
   • Rub the entire chicken, inside and out, with the herb mixture. Make sure to get the mixture under the skin for added flavor.

4. Stuff with Lemons:

   • Slice one lemon into rounds and stuff the chicken cavity with the lemon slices.
   • Place a few lemon slices on top of the chicken as well.

5. Tie the Chicken:

   • If the chicken has legs, tie them together with kitchen twine. This helps the chicken cook more evenly.

6. Roast in the Oven:

   • Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
   • Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with pan juices every 30 minutes.

7. Check for Doneness:

   • To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken without touching the bone. The juices should run clear, and the temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

8. Rest and Serve:

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

9. Optional Gravy:

   • If desired, use the pan juices to make a simple gravy by adding a bit of flour and stirring over medium heat until thickened.

10. Serve and Enjoy:

    • Carve the chicken into serving pieces, and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy the flavorful and juicy Lemon Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken!

This recipe is sure to impress with its aromatic blend of herbs and citrus, resulting in a deliciously roasted chicken that's perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.