Tired of the same old chicken dinner? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's both easy to make and impressive to serve? Then look no further! This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals made easy, perfect for a quick dinner idea or a more leisurely weekend meal. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking with this simple yet stunning dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the chicken inside and out and pat it dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step for achieving crispy skin.
Step 2: Stuff the Chicken
Place the lemon halves, rosemary, thyme, and garlic inside the chicken cavity.
Step 3: Season and Roast
Rub the chicken skin with olive oil, then generously season with salt and pepper. 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).
Step 4: Rest and 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.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Roasted Chicken:
- For extra crispy skin: Pat the chicken very dry before seasoning and oiling. You can also increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure your roasting pan is large enough to allow for proper air circulation around the chicken.
- Basting: For extra juicy chicken, you can baste it with pan juices every 20 minutes during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Variations:
- Different Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, sage, or parsley.
- Citrus Twist: Add orange slices or segments along with the lemon.
- Garlic Lover's Delight: Add more garlic cloves or a paste of minced garlic.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the chicken and serving portions. However, a general estimate for a 4-serving recipe would be:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes. It’s a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition, making it a winner for busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!