Recipe: Lemon Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken

 ngredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
• 2 lemons, sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken:

   • Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a roasting pan or a large oven-safe skillet.

3. Season the Chicken:

   • In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, olive oil, paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. This will be your herb and garlic rub.

4. Rub the Chicken:

   • Rub the herb and garlic mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor.

5. Add Lemon Slices:

   • Slice one lemon into rounds and place the slices under the chicken skin and inside the cavity. Cut the other lemon into wedges for later use.

6. Tie the Legs:

   • If your chicken comes with a pop-up timer, leave it in. Otherwise, tie the legs together with kitchen twine to help the chicken cook evenly.

7. Roast in the Oven:

   • Place the chicken in the preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.

8. Baste with Juices:

   • Every 20-30 minutes, baste the chicken with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful.

9. Add Lemon Wedges:

   • During the last 30 minutes of cooking, scatter the lemon wedges around the chicken in the pan for additional citrus flavor.

10. Rest and Serve:

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

11. Garnish and Enjoy:

    • Garnish the roasted chicken with additional fresh herbs and serve it with your favorite sides. Enjoy the delicious, herb-infused, lemony goodness!

This Lemon Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The combination of citrusy lemons and aromatic herbs creates a flavorful and juicy roast that is sure to impress.