Lemon Roasted Chicken
The ultimate comfort food, Lemon Roasted Chicken is a perfect blend of juicy chicken and bright lemon flavors. Ideal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish fills your home with warmth and invites everyone to the table. Experience the crispy skin and tender meat that will make you crave this meal again and again. Make it tonight for a delightful family feast!
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Frying Pan
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 unit whole chicken about 4 pounds
- 2 unit large lemons
- 4 unit cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. This high heat will help achieve that crispy skin we're all after.
- In a small bowl, combine the juice of one lemon, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful marinade. The bright acidity of the lemon will infuse the chicken with its zesty flavor.
- Take the marinade and rub it generously both inside and outside of the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. Don't be shy—this is where a lot of the flavor comes from!
- Cut the remaining lemon into quarters and place it inside the cavity of the chicken. This will not only add flavor from the inside out but also help keep the chicken moist while roasting.
- Using kitchen twine, tie the chicken legs together and tuck the wing tips under the body. This helps the chicken cook evenly and gives it a nice shape.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast it in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. As it cooks, keep an eye on the chicken; you're looking for that beautiful, golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
- Once the chicken is done, let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and flavorful.
- Carve the chicken and serve it warm. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors in each bite of your Lemon Roasted Chicken.
Notes
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken is properly cooked by using a meat thermometer. It should read 165 degrees F at the thickest part of the meat.
- Let it Rest: Resting the chicken before carving is crucial. It prevents the juices from running out, keeping the meat moist.
- Save the Bones: Don't throw away the bones after you've carved the chicken! They can be used to make a delicious homemade broth.
- Be Generous with Marinade: The more marinade you use, the more flavorful your chicken will be. Don’t skimp on this step!