1. Introduction
If you’re craving something cozy, fresh, and packed with flavor, Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is the answer. It’s one of those classic dishes that smells amazing while it cooks and tastes even better on the plate.
Bright lemon, fragrant herbs, crispy skin, and tender, juicy meat — this recipe feels fancy but is surprisingly simple. Perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or meal prep for the week.
Think: minimal prep, maximum flavor, and one pan cleanup. Win-win!
2. Ingredients (Exact Measurements)
Chicken & Marinade
- 1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs), pat dry
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large lemons (1 sliced, 1 juiced)
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Aromatics (for roasting pan)
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, chunky cut
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- Extra lemon slices + herb sprigs
3. Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
Get these ready first:
- Roasting pan or cast iron skillet
- Meat thermometer
- Cutting board
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Kitchen twine (optional for trussing)
- Basting brush or spoon
- Aluminum foil
4. Preparation Steps (Barney Style 🐣)
Step 1 – Prep the chicken
- Remove giblets
- Pat completely dry (super important for crispy skin!)
Step 2 – Make herb butter
In a bowl mix:
butter + olive oil + garlic + herbs + lemon juice + salt + pepper + paprika
Step 3 – Season
- Rub mixture all over chicken
- Gently lift skin and rub some underneath
- Stuff cavity with lemon slices + onion + herbs
Step 4 – Pan setup
Place chopped veggies in pan
Set chicken on top (like a little rack)
5. Cooking Instructions
Temperature & Timing
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C)
- Roast uncovered for 20 minutes
- Reduce heat to 375°F (190°C)
- Continue roasting 60–75 minutes
Done when:
- Internal temp hits 165°F (thickest thigh)
- Skin is deep golden brown
- Juices run clear
Secret Tips 🔥
✔ Baste every 20 minutes
✔ Let rest 10–15 minutes before carving
✔ High heat first = crispy skin magic
6. Serving Suggestions
Serve it like a cozy home dinner:
Great sides
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Buttery rice or quinoa
- Fresh green salad
- Warm crusty bread
Garnish ideas
- Fresh parsley
- Lemon zest
- Pan juices drizzle
- Extra roasted garlic
7. Additional Tips & Flavor Boosters
Make it even better
⭐ Add white wine to the pan
⭐ Sprinkle parmesan during last 10 minutes
⭐ Toss veggies in chicken drippings
Diet swaps
- Dairy-free → skip butter, use olive oil only
- Low carb → serve with cauliflower mash
- Extra protein → use chicken thighs only
8. Nutrition Details (Per Serving – approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbs | 6 g |
| Fat | 27 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
(Based on 6 servings)
9. FAQ Section
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in airtight container in fridge for 4 days.
Can I use dried herbs?
Yes. Use ⅓ the amount of fresh.
Can I roast chicken pieces instead?
Absolutely. Reduce cook time to 35–45 minutes.
How do I reheat without drying?
Cover with foil and warm at 300°F.
Can I meal prep this?
Yes! Great for sandwiches, salads, wraps, bowls.
10. Wrap-Up
This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is one of those timeless meals that never fails. It’s simple enough for a weekday but special enough for guests. The lemon keeps it bright, the herbs keep it fresh, and that crispy golden skin? Totally irresistible.
Fun fact: roasting chicken with lemon and herbs has been a home-cooking tradition across Mediterranean kitchens for generations — proof that simple ingredients truly shine.
Give it a try once… and it’ll quickly become your go-to comfort dinner. 🍋✨
