You know those days when you just want to feel like a culinary wizard without actually putting in wizard-level effort? Enter this Easy Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Recipe—it’s like a warm hug from your oven. Seriously, the moment you start roasting, the kitchen fills with the most heavenly aroma, and suddenly, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating an experience. The tangy lemon and savory garlic blend together like a symphony—yeah, I went there—making the chicken so juicy and flavorful, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel, remove giblets, tuck the wings under the breast, and secure the legs with kitchen twine.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with salt, pepper, and thyme. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it gets under the skin as well.
- Fill the chicken cavity with sliced garlic, onion, and thyme sprigs.
- Place the prepared chicken breast side up in a large baking dish and roast until the skin turns golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, which should take about 60-75 minutes.
- Baste the chicken with the juices from the baking dish, then allow it to rest for 15 minutes before carving.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, approximately 3 ½ pounds
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme plus 1 tablespoon additional fresh thyme
- 1 head of garlic, halved horizontally
- ½ onion
- Lemon slices for serving
Nutritional Values
Calories: 2024kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 144g | Fat: 148g | Saturated Fat: 56g | Cholesterol: 660mg | Sodium: 3168mg | Potassium: 1708mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 2308IU | Vitamin C: 60mg | Calcium: 188mg | Iron: 8mg
FAQ
- Can I prepare the roast chicken in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time by seasoning and stuffing it the night before. Letting it sit in the fridge can help achieve crispier skin as the salt draws out moisture.
- How much chicken should I plan for each person?
- It’s recommended to allocate about one pound of whole chicken per person. Therefore, a 4-pound chicken is typically suitable for serving four people.
- How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?
- The chicken is fully cooked when a meat thermometer, placed in the thickest part of the thigh, registers 165°F. Ensure the thermometer is not touching the bone for an accurate reading.
- Is it necessary to tie the legs before roasting?
- While tying the legs helps the chicken cook more evenly and maintain its shape, it is not a strict requirement. The chicken will still cook properly without tying.
- What is the best way to store leftovers?
- To store leftovers, remove the meat from the bones and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The leftover chicken is versatile and can be used in sandwiches, salads, or other meals. Don’t discard the carcass; it can be used to make homemade chicken stock.
Tips
- Truss the Chicken for Even Cooking: Use kitchen twine to tie the legs of the chicken together. This helps ensure the chicken cooks evenly and keeps the meat juicy.
- Pat the Chicken Dry for Crispy Skin: Before roasting, make sure to pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. This reduces moisture on the skin, allowing it to crisp up nicely during cooking. For extra crispy skin, consider placing it under the broiler for a few minutes after roasting.
- Minimize Herbs on the Skin: Be cautious with the amount of herbs applied on the chicken’s exterior as they can brown faster than the skin. Tucking them under the skin can add flavor without risking a burnt appearance.
- Allow the Chicken to Rest Before Carving: After roasting, let the chicken rest for 15 to 30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in tender, moist chicken when you carve it.
Equipment
- Meat Thermometer – Essential for checking that the chicken is fully cooked to 165°F.
- Kitchen Twine – Used for tying the chicken legs together to ensure even cooking.
- Large Baking Dish – Necessary for roasting the chicken in the oven.
