Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! Mimi's Restaurant is famous for our Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken, and today, we're sharing our secret recipe with you. This isn't just another roasted chicken; it's a symphony of flavors, juicy and tender, with crispy skin and a bright, herbaceous aroma that will fill your kitchen with irresistible goodness. It's perfect for a family dinner, a romantic evening, or even a simple, satisfying meal for one. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Getting Started: Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect crispy skin.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
- Place the lemon slices, rosemary, and thyme inside the chicken cavity. The herbs will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor.
Seasoning and Roasting: The Magic Happens Here
- In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Rub this flavorful mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it gets into every nook and cranny.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan. You can use a roasting rack for extra crispy skin, but it’s not essential.
- Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results; this guarantees perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
Resting and Serving: The Final Touches
- 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 the chicken and serve immediately. This easy recipe pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Chicken:
- Brining: For extra juicy chicken, consider brining it for a few hours before roasting.
- Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Give your chicken enough space in the roasting pan for even cooking.
Variations:
- Garlic and Herb Butter: For an even more flavorful chicken, try rubbing it with a mixture of garlic herb butter before roasting.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Twist: Experiment with different citrus fruits, like oranges or grapefruits, instead of lemon.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: Approximately 35g
- Fat: Approximately 20g
This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and healthy meals you can easily create at home. It's a quick dinner idea that's perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for special occasions. Try it out and let us know what you think! We'd love to hear your feedback and see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!