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Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken

Crispy lemon garlic roasted chicken on a rustic wooden cutting board.

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A bright and savory roasted chicken that is both deeply satisfying and supportive of wellness goals. With juicy meat, crispy skin, and vibrant lemon garlic flavor, it’s a wholesome, comforting meal perfect for any weeknight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds), patted dry
  • 2 large lemons, one sliced and one juiced
  • 1 whole head garlic, cloves separated and peeled
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped
  • 2-3 medium carrots, cut into large chunks
  • 2 stalks celery, cut into large chunks

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of a large roasting pan or cast-iron skillet.
  2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to create a herb paste.
  3. Gently loosen the skin over the chicken breast. Rub about half of the herb paste under the skin directly onto the meat. Rub the remaining paste all over the outside of the chicken.
  4. Place the lemon slices and several peeled garlic cloves inside the chicken cavity. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine or tuck the wingtips under.
  5. Place the chicken, breast-side up, on top of the vegetables in the pan. Scatter the remaining garlic cloves around the chicken.
  6. Roast for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
  7. Remove the pan from the oven. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Notes

Patting the chicken skin dry is crucial for crispiness. Using an instant-read thermometer ensures perfectly cooked, juicy meat. Do not skip the resting step, as it allows juices to redistribute. The pan drippings and roasted vegetables make a great base for gravy.

Nutrition