Easy Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s bursting with flavor yet simple to make, this Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken recipe is a winner. The combination of tangy lemon, fragrant garlic, and fresh herbs creates a juicy and tender chicken that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Roasting a whole chicken may seem intimidating, but with this foolproof recipe, you’ll be savoring a delicious and beautifully golden bird in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy—just fresh ingredients and a few pantry staples.
- Full of Flavor: Lemon and garlic infuse the chicken with a bright, zesty flavor, while the herbs add a savory, earthy note.
- Moist and Tender: The chicken is roasted to perfection, with crispy skin on the outside and juicy, flavorful meat on the inside.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Roast chicken makes great leftovers, whether you turn it into sandwiches, salads, or soups.
Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken
- Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant flavor, but dried herbs work well if that’s what you have on hand.
- Baste frequently with the pan juices to ensure the chicken stays moist and develops a beautiful golden-brown skin.
- Let the chicken rest after roasting to lock in all the delicious juices before carving.
- Save the drippings to make a simple pan sauce or gravy—just reduce the liquid in the roasting pan on the stovetop and whisk in a bit of butter for richness.
Serving Suggestions
Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Roasted vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven and soak up the flavors of the chicken.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the chicken.
- Simple green salad: A light salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the roast chicken.
- Crusty bread: Serve with warm bread to mop up the flavorful pan drippings.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover roasted chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the leftover chicken in salads, sandwiches, or soups.
Final Thoughts
Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken is a classic dish that never disappoints. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for easy, delicious meals throughout the week.
Enjoy the satisfying crunch of the crispy skin, the juicy tenderness of the meat, and the bold, fresh flavors of lemon, garlic, and herbs in every bite. Happy roasting!
Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken
Equipment
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
- Basting brush
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
- 6 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for basting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting pan.
- Rub the olive oil mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated.
- If desired, pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan for added moisture.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hr 15 min, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Baste the chicken with pan juices every 20-30 minutes for extra flavor.
- Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider stuffing the cavity of the chicken with lemon halves and fresh herbs before roasting.
- This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
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