Name: Lemon-Herb Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 85 min
Cuisine: Healthy
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (4 lbs); 2 lemons; 1 head garlic; 4 sprigs rosemary; 4 sprigs thyme; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

2Instructions

Quick Summary

This lemon-herb roasted chicken yields golden, crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. It is a wholesome, high-protein meal perfect for families or meal prepping.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (approx. 4 lbs)
2 large lemons, halved
1 head of garlic, halved horizontally
4 sprigs fresh rosemary

4 sprigs fresh thyme
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp kosher salt
½ tsp cracked black pepper

Method

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps beautifully.
2. Stuff the cavity with half the lemon, half the garlic, and half the herbs. Rub the exterior with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in a roasting pan. Tuck the remaining lemon, garlic, and herbs around the bird.
4. Roast for 60–75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
5. Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving to keep the juices locked in.

Stewart’s Secret

Don’t skip the drying step. Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin. For extra flavor, gently loosen the skin over the breast and slide a few sprigs of herbs directly against the meat.

Nutrition Snapshot

Protein	42g
Fat	28g
Carbs	3g
Calories	450

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh. It should read 165°F (74°C).

Can I add vegetables to the pan?

Absolutely. Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions roast perfectly in the chicken drippings.

Why must I let the chicken rest?

Resting allows the muscle fibers to relax and reabsorb the juices, ensuring every bite is moist.

Lemon-Herb Roasted Chicken

The Story

1Ingredients

2Instructions

Quick Summary

Ingredients

Method

Stewart’s Secret

Nutrition Snapshot

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Can I add vegetables to the pan?

Why must I let the chicken rest?

Nutrition Information

You Might Also Like

Grilled Cod with Lemon-Roasted Carrots

Hearty Flaxseed Oatmeal

Simple Roasted Lemon Herb Chicken & Broccoli

Stewart Lucas

Community Reviews