Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Position a rack in the middle of the oven.
Pat the chicken dry inside and out with paper towels. Let it sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes if chilled.
Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil or butter, then season evenly with kosher salt and black pepper. If using, place lemon halves, garlic cloves, and herbs in the cavity.
Truss the legs with kitchen twine or tuck the wing tips under the body, then place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or ovenproof skillet.
Roast in the preheated oven until the skin is deep golden and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C), about 45–60 minutes for a 3–4 lb bird. Begin checking at 45 minutes.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.