Savory Herb-Infused Juicy Roasted Chicken: Your New Family Favorite
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a perfectly roasted chicken filling your kitchen, making it a timeless favorite for family dinners and special occasions alike. This Juicy Roasted Chicken recipe combines a blend of aromatic herbs, zesty lemon, and savory garlic to create a dish that’s not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. With a golden-brown, crispy skin and tender, succulent meat, this chicken is sure to impress your guests and become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire. Whether served with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, this delightful dish will elevate any meal!
Juicy Roasted Chicken
Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry using paper towels. Make sure to remove any giblets from the cavity. - Season the Chicken:
Rub the entire chicken (inside and out) with olive oil. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the skin. Season the chicken with paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper, ensuring even coverage. - Stuff the Chicken:
Fill the chicken cavity with lemon halves, onion quarters, rosemary, and thyme. This aromatic combination will infuse flavor into the meat during roasting. - Truss the Chicken (Optional):
For even cooking, you can tie the legs of the chicken together with kitchen twine. This step is optional but helps maintain the shape and ensure juicy results. - Roasting Time:
Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting pan or a rack inside a baking dish. If you prefer extra moisture, pour 1/2 cup of chicken broth into the pan. This will create steam and add to the juiciness. - Bake and Baste:
Roast the chicken for 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh. Every 30 minutes, baste the chicken with the pan juices to keep the skin crispy and the meat moist. - Rest Before Serving:
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This step locks in the juices, making the chicken tender and flavorful. Slice and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Tips:
- Crispier Skin: For an extra crispy skin, turn the oven to broil for the last 5 minutes of roasting.
- Extra Flavor: Add a few garlic cloves and lemon wedges to the roasting pan to further enhance the flavors.
