Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Rosemary is a classic dish that combines simplicity with exquisite flavor. This recipe features a whole chicken seasoned with fresh rosemary, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic, resulting in a perfectly roasted bird with crispy skin and juicy meat. Ideal for a family dinner or special occasion, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The lemon adds a bright, tangy flavor that complements the savory rosemary, making each bite a delightful experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making this mouthwatering roasted chicken from scratch.
Ingredients for Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Rosemary
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs) – The main component of the dish; ensures a hearty and satisfying meal.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps to crisp up the skin and adds richness.
- 1 lemon – Provides a tangy flavor and aromatic zest.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a savory depth to the seasoning.
- 3-4 sprigs fresh rosemary – Infuses the chicken with a fragrant, herby taste.
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves – Complements the rosemary with a subtle earthy flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
- 1 cup chicken broth – Keeps the chicken moist during roasting and adds flavor.
Optional Vegetables for Roasting:
- 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks – Adds a hearty side to the meal.
- 3-4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks – Provides a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
- 1 onion, quartered – Adds sweetness and flavor to the roasting pan.
How to Make Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Rosemary
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve a crispy skin.
- Clean the Chicken: Remove any giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken helps achieve a crispy skin.
- Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken all over with olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper, both inside the cavity and on the skin.
- Stuff the Chicken: Cut the lemon in half and place it inside the chicken cavity along with a few sprigs of rosemary and thyme. The lemon will infuse the meat with a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Tie the Legs: Use kitchen twine to tie the legs together, which helps the chicken cook evenly and retain its shape.
Step 2: Prepare for Roasting
- Prepare the Vegetables (Optional): If using vegetables, toss the potatoes, carrots, and onion with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them in a single layer in a roasting pan.
- Place the Chicken: Set the chicken on a rack in the roasting pan or directly on top of the vegetables. This allows the heat to circulate around the chicken for even cooking.
- Add Garlic and Broth: Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken and vegetables. Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This will help keep the chicken moist and create a flavorful base for a sauce.
Step 3: Roast the Chicken
- Roast: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven. Roast the chicken for 1 ¼ to 1 ½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the chicken occasionally with the pan juices to keep it moist.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when the skin is golden brown and crispy. The juices should run clear when pierced with a knife.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and juicy.
- Carve and Serve: Carve the chicken and serve it with the roasted vegetables and any additional sides you prefer. The flavorful pan juices can be spooned over the chicken or used to make a gravy.
About the Main Ingredients
- Whole Chicken: A whole chicken is ideal for roasting as it allows for even cooking and creates a flavorful, juicy bird. The skin crisps up nicely when roasted, adding to the overall texture and taste.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to coat the chicken, helping to achieve a crispy skin and adding a rich flavor. It also helps the seasonings adhere to the chicken.
- Lemon: Lemon adds a fresh, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the chicken. The lemon zest and juice infuse the meat with a vibrant taste.
- Garlic: Garlic provides a savory depth of flavor that complements the herbs and chicken. It caramelizes during roasting, adding a subtle sweetness.
- Rosemary and Thyme: These herbs infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors. Rosemary adds a pine-like, slightly woody taste, while thyme provides a subtle earthy note.
- Chicken Broth: Chicken broth keeps the meat moist and adds additional flavor to the pan. It can be used to make a sauce or gravy to serve with the chicken.
This Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Rosemary recipe is a perfect choice for a comforting meal that is both flavorful and elegant. Enjoy the process of roasting this classic dish and savor the delightful results with your family and friends!
