Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this Fast Roast Chicken with Lemon Herbs recipe! Imagine cutting into a perfectly golden, crispy-skinned chicken that's infused with bright, zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone rushing to the dinner table. This French-inspired dish is not just a meal, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with gourmet flavor in just one hour of cooking time.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 2 lemons
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the chicken from refrigeration and let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Pat the chicken dry completely with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve crispy skin during roasting.
- Zest one lemon and chop fresh thyme leaves. Mix zest, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create a herb marinade.
- Gently loosen the chicken skin using your fingers, being careful not to tear it. Spread the herb mixture underneath the skin, covering the breast and thigh areas.
- Cut both lemons into quarters. Place half the lemon pieces inside the chicken cavity and scatter the remaining pieces around the roasting pan.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. Truss the legs with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Carve the chicken and serve with roasted lemon pieces, garnishing with additional fresh thyme if desired.
Tips
- • Room Temperature Magic: Always let your chicken sit out for 20-30 minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution. • Moisture is the Enemy of Crispiness: Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels to achieve that coveted crispy skin. • Herb Infusion Technique: Gently loosen the skin and spread herbs underneath for maximum flavor penetration. • Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy meat. • Resting is Crucial: Allow the chicken to rest 10-15 minutes after roasting to let juices redistribute, guaranteeing moist, tender meat. • Bonus Flavor Hack: Roasting lemon quarters alongside the chicken adds an extra layer of bright, citrusy flavor to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 38g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 115mg
