Description

This Lemon Chicken recipe features a whole roasted chicken infused with fresh lemon slices, garlic, and aromatic herbs like rosemary and thyme. The chicken is marinated in olive oil, salt, and black pepper to enhance its natural flavors and then oven-roasted to a crispy, golden finish with juicy, tender meat inside. Perfect for a comforting and flavorful dinner, it’s simple yet elegant enough for special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
2 fresh lemons, sliced
6 cloves garlic, smashed
3 to 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
Fresh thyme, to taste
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Ingredients

Sliced onions
Chopped carrots
White wine
Paprika
Other herbs of choice

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Instructions

Marinate the chicken: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture thoroughly under the chicken’s skin and inside the cavity. Cover and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or preferably overnight in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to deepen.
Prepare lemon slices and sauce: Slice the two fresh lemons into thin rounds. Optionally, squeeze some lemon juice into the marinade or reserve for basting later to enhance the citrus flavor during roasting.
Preheat and arrange for roasting: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a roasting pan, arrange the lemon slices evenly to create a bed for the chicken. Place the marinated chicken on top of the lemon slices, optionally adding smashed garlic, rosemary, thyme, and any additional vegetables or herbs as desired.
Roast the chicken: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh for safe consumption. Adjust cooking time if necessary.
Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist meat. Carve the chicken and serve garnished with the roasted lemon slices and fresh herbs for an aromatic and visually appealing dish.

Notes

Marinating overnight enhances flavor but is not mandatory for a quicker preparation.
Using a meat thermometer ensures perfectly cooked chicken without drying out.
Optional vegetables like carrots and onions can be added to the roasting pan for additional flavor and a complete meal.
Letting the chicken rest after roasting is crucial to lock in moisture.
Leftover lemon slices can be saved as a garnish or squeezed over the served chicken for extra zest.