Dinner Made Easy: Juicy Lemon-Herb Roasted Chicken
A whole roasted chicken is a true workhorse in the kitchen. It’s a classic dish that’s impressive enough for company, yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. This recipe infuses the chicken with vibrant lemon and herb flavors, resulting in a juicy bird with a beautiful golden-brown skin. Best of all, it’s remarkably easy to prepare!
Ingredients:
- 1 (4-5 pound) whole chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- 4-5 sprigs fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or a combination)
- 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
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Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This will help the skin crisp up nicely.
- Rub the olive oil all over the chicken.
- In a small bowl, combine the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly under the skin of the chicken and all over the outside.
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Stuff the Chicken:
- Place the lemon wedges and fresh herbs inside the chicken’s cavity. This will subtly infuse the chicken with delicious flavors during the roasting process.
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Roast:
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan or baking dish. If desired, pour the white wine or chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. This helps keep the chicken extra juicy and adds flavor to the pan juices.
- Roast for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). For extra crispy skin, broil for the last few minutes of cooking.
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Rest and Carve:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
- After resting, carve the chicken and serve.
Flavor Variations:
Get creative with the herbs and spices to create a custom flavor experience:
- Citrus Burst: Substitute lemon with orange wedges and sprinkle the chicken with dried or fresh tarragon.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to the seasoning blend for a subtly spicy flavor.
- Garlic Lover: Tuck 3-4 whole garlic cloves inside the chicken’s cavity for a delightful garlic infusion.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pan Sauce: After the chicken has rested, use the pan juices to make a simple sauce. Simmer with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of flour for a delicious gravy.
- Classic Sides: Pair your roasted chicken with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, or a simple green salad.
- Versatility: Shred leftover chicken for sandwiches, salads, tacos, or soups.
Tips for the Perfect Roasted Chicken:
- Thermometer is Key: The most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is by using a digital meat thermometer.
- Dry Brining: For even juicier meat, salt the chicken and let it rest uncovered in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight (this is called dry brining).
- Spatchcock for Faster Cooking: To cut down on cooking time, consider spatchcocking your chicken (removing the backbone and flattening it).
- Customize to Your Liking: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs, spices, and flavor combinations to personalize your roasted chicken.
Whole roasted chicken is a satisfying and adaptable meal that is surprisingly simple to prepare. With minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and impressive centerpiece for any dinner table. The zesty lemon, fragrant herbs, and tender, juicy chicken create a flavor combination that’s sure to please everyone.