Roasted Chicken
Description
This classic roasted chicken recipe delivers golden, crispy skin and tender, juicy meat infused with the bright aroma of fresh lemon and savory Herbes de Provence. Perfect for a Sunday family dinner or a weeknight treat, it requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. The combination of olive oil, lemon zest, and herbs creates a fragrant marinade that penetrates the skin, while stuffing the cavity with lemon halves keeps the meat moist during roasting. Serve with roasted vegetables or a simple salad for a complete, comforting meal that feels both elegant and homey.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 400&# 194;°F (200ðC).
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Rinse chicken inside and out with cold water; drain and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
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Grate peel from the lemon, then cut the lemon in half and squeeze juice into a small bowl.
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In the small bowl, whisk together lemon peel, lemon juice, and olive oil until well blended.
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Place chicken breast-side up in a shallow roasting pan.
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Drizzle half of the lemon mixture over the chicken skin.
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Sprinkle Herbes de Provence and black pepper evenly over the skin.
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Place the squeezed lemon halves inside the chicken cavity.
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Tie legs and tail together with kitchen string.
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Insert an ovenproof meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, ensuring it does not touch bone.
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Roast for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165ðF (74ðC) and juices run clear.
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Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8 servings
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 232.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7.0g11%
- Saturated Fat 1.8g9%
- Cholesterol 44.5mg15%
- Sodium 52.3mg3%
- Total Carbohydrate 23.8g8%
- Dietary Fiber 4.3g18%
- Sugars 4.0g
- Protein 18.4g37%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For extra crispy skin, ensure the chicken is completely dry before seasoning. You can also refrigerate the seasoned chicken uncovered for a few hours before roasting.
If you do not have Herbes de Provence, a mixture of dried thyme, rosemary, and marjoram works well.
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperature. Avoid piercing the breast meat repeatedly to keep it juicy.