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Lemon Herb Roast Chicken

Golden brown lemon herb roast chicken on a rustic wooden cutting board.

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A simple, comforting roast chicken with crispy skin and tender, lemony meat. It’s a one-pan wonder perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive yet easy meal for guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds), patted very dry
  • 2 large lemons, one sliced and one juiced
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 large yellow onion, roughly chopped
  • 3-4 medium carrots, cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 2 stalks celery, cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat chicken completely dry with paper towels, inside and out.
  2. Place chopped onion, carrots, and celery in a roasting pan. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat.
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper to make a herb butter paste. Zest one lemon into the butter, then juice it and set juice aside.
  4. Place chicken on top of vegetables. Gently loosen skin over breast and spread half the herb butter directly onto the meat under the skin. Rub remaining butter all over outside of chicken.
  5. Season cavity with salt and pepper. Place lemon slices and any leftover herb stems inside. Tuck wingtips under and tie legs together with kitchen twine.
  6. Roast for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce temperature to 375°F (190°C). Continue roasting until internal temperature in thickest part of thigh reaches 165°F (74°C), about 60-75 minutes more.
  7. Transfer chicken to a cutting board, tent loosely with foil, and rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with roasted vegetables.

Notes

For crispy skin, pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning. Using an instant-read thermometer is essential for perfect doneness. Letting the chicken rest ensures juicy meat. Leftover chicken can be used in soups, salads, or casseroles.

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