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Homemade Easy Roast Chicken (Lemon & Herb) photo

Easy Roast Chicken (Lemon & Herb)

This Easy Roast Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that will impress everyone! Juicy, tender meat paired with crispy skin makes it a must-try!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 whole chicken (3.5-6 pounds)
  • to taste salt & pepper
  • 1 lemon cut into quarters
  • 6 cloves garlic peeled
  • 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 1/4 cup butter (1/2 stick, melted)

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • Cooking twine
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Basting brush

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
  2. Step 2: Remove the chicken from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is essential for crisping the skin.
  3. Step 3: Season the inside of the chicken cavity with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with the lemon quarters, garlic cloves, and rosemary sprigs for extra flavor.
  4. Step 4: Using cooking twine, tie the legs together and tuck the wing tips under the chicken. Trussing helps the chicken cook evenly.
  5. Step 5: Brush the outside of the chicken with the melted butter, ensuring it’s well-coated. Season generously with more salt and pepper.
  6. Step 6: Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  7. Step 7: For an extra layer of flavor, baste the chicken with its juices halfway through cooking.
  8. Step 8: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist chicken.

Notes

  • Experiment with different herbs like thyme or sage for varied flavors.
  • Use olive oil or ghee as a butter alternative for a dairy-free option.
  • Pair the chicken with roasted veggies like carrots or potatoes for a complete meal.