Zesty Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken Recipe

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Zesty Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken, a succulent dish that marries the brightness of lemon with the aromatic punch of garlic. Perfect for a cozy dinner for two, this recipe guarantees a flavorful and juicy chicken with a golden, crispy skin. Let’s dive into creating this mouth-watering dish that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons, one sliced and one juiced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved (optional, for a side)

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. This ensures the skin will crisp up nicely.
3. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons olive oil, juice of one lemon, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Season the mixture with salt and pepper.

Seasoning and Stuffing

1. Rub the chicken inside and out with the lemon-garlic-herb mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated.
2. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon slices and any extra garlic or herbs you have.
3. Truss the chicken legs with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body.

Roasting

1. If making a side, toss the halved baby potatoes in the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange them around the chicken in the roasting pan.
2. Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the juices run clear and a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
3. Halfway through cooking, baste the chicken with the pan juices to keep it moist.

Resting and Serving

1. Once done, let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is succulent.
2. Serve the roasted chicken with the roasted baby potatoes and a side of steamed vegetables if desired.

Tips

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken with the lemon-garlic-herb mixture in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
• To serve one or four people, adjust the size of the chicken accordingly or roast additional chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Nutritional Information (estimated per serving)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 35g

Q&A

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? A: Yes, dried herbs can be used in place of fresh. The general rule is 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs.

Q: How can I ensure the skin gets really crispy? A: Make sure the skin is completely dry before applying the oil and seasoning. Also, roasting at a high temperature helps achieve a crispy skin.

Q: What can I do with leftovers? A: Leftover chicken can be shredded and used in salads, sandwiches, or soups. It’s a great way to make the most of your meal.

Summary

This Zesty Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken recipe brings a burst of flavors to your dinner table, combining the tang of lemon, the warmth of garlic and herbs, and the comfort of roasted chicken into one delightful dish. Perfect for any occasion, from a simple weeknight dinner to a more formal gathering, it's a versatile recipe that promises to please. Enjoy the process of creating this beautiful, flavorful meal that's as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. Buon appetito!