Are you looking for a delicious and impressive dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe, inspired by a classic C.R. Gibson recipe book, is the perfect answer. It's a healthy meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Get ready to experience the delightful aroma and juicy tenderness of this perfectly roasted chicken! This recipe is a staple in our family, a go-to for easy recipes and healthy meals, a true testament to the power of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), patted dry
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it crisp up nicely.
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Flavor Infusion: Place the lemon slices, rosemary, and thyme inside the chicken cavity. Rub the chicken skin with olive oil, ensuring it's evenly coated. Then, generously sprinkle the minced garlic, salt, and pepper all over the chicken.
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Roasting Perfection: Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C). Basting the chicken halfway through with pan juices will add extra flavor and moisture.
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Rest & Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Carve and serve immediately. Enjoy this delicious dish – a true quick dinner idea!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Brining for Extra Moisture: For an incredibly juicy chicken, consider brining it for a few hours before roasting. Simply submerge the chicken in a saltwater solution (1/4 cup salt per quart of water).
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Ensure your roasting pan is large enough to accommodate the chicken comfortably. Overcrowding can hinder even cooking.
- Check for Doneness: Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked through.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
- Herby Delight: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley, oregano, or sage.
- Citrus Twist: Substitute the lemon with oranges or a combination of citrus fruits.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 2-3g
This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is a versatile and satisfying dish. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and memorable meal. It's a recipe that’s easy to adapt to your preferences, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!