Roasted Chicken with Garlic and Herbs

Roasted chicken with garlic and herbs is the epitome of a classic, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings together the rich, savory flavor of a whole chicken infused with the aromatic taste of fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of citrus. When roasted to golden perfection, the skin becomes crispy, while the inside remains juicy and tender. By using a brine, the chicken absorbs even more flavor, resulting in a succulent, flavorful bird that will impress your family and guests. The combination of rosemary, thyme, garlic, and parsley creates a fragrant aroma that will fill your kitchen, adding an extra layer of indulgence. Whether you’re preparing for a Sunday dinner or a holiday feast, this roasted chicken is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple yet sophisticated and perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal. Plus, with the addition of lemon and onion, the flavors are well-balanced, offering a perfect harmony of fresh and savory ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Perfectly Crispy Skin

Roasting the chicken ensures the skin turns crispy while the inside remains juicy and tender, giving you the perfect contrast in textures.

2. Flavorful and Aromatic

The garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, combined with lemon, infuse the chicken with rich, aromatic flavors that make every bite delightful.

3. Customizable

You can adjust the flavors by using different herbs or adding additional ingredients like garlic or vegetables in the roasting pan.

4. Great for Special Occasions

This recipe is impressive enough for a special dinner, a family gathering, or a holiday feast. It makes any meal feel festive and elegant.

5. Leftovers Make Great Dishes

Roasted chicken is versatile for leftovers, allowing you to use it in soups, sandwiches, salads, and more.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• Chicken brine (optional but highly recommended)
• 5 lb whole chicken
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Fresh thyme sprigs
• 1 onion, peeled and quartered
• 1 lemon, quartered
• Softened butter
• Minced garlic
• Fresh thyme leaves (minced)
• Fresh rosemary leaves (minced)
• Fresh parsley leaves (minced)
• Salt and pepper (to taste, adjust if brined)

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Place root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips in the roasting pan. The vegetables will soak up the flavorful drippings from the chicken.
• Citrus Twist: Use orange or lime slices along with or instead of the lemon for a different citrus flavor.
• Spicy Roasted Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the butter mixture for an extra kick of heat.
• Herb Substitutions: If rosemary and thyme aren’t your favorite, you can use sage, oregano, or basil as a substitute for the herbs.
• Garlic Lover’s Version: Increase the amount of garlic to suit your taste or even add roasted garlic cloves to the pan to enhance the flavor.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brine the Chicken (Optional)

For juicier, more flavorful chicken, brine your bird in a saltwater solution for a few hours or overnight. If you choose not to brine, simply season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Prepare the Herb Butter

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste. This herb butter will be used to flavor the chicken and help crisp the skin.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the onion, lemon quarters, and sprigs of rosemary and thyme. These aromatics will infuse the chicken with additional flavor as it roasts.

Step 4: Season and Butter the Chicken

Rub the herb butter mixture all over the chicken’s skin, making sure to coat it evenly. Season the chicken with additional salt and pepper to taste, especially if you didn’t brine it. This will help create a flavorful crust.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. If the chicken begins to brown too quickly, tent it loosely with foil.

Step 6: Let the Chicken Rest

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist, tender roast.

Step 7: Serve

Carve the chicken and serve with the roasted aromatics, drizzling any pan juices over the meat for added flavor. Enjoy with your favorite sides.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Dry the Chicken: Make sure to dry the chicken well before applying the butter to ensure a crispy skin.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Let it Rest: Don’t skip the resting step. It helps the juices stay in the meat rather than running out when you carve it.
• Tuck the Wings: Tuck the chicken’s wings under the bird to prevent them from overcooking and burning.
• Add Extra Flavor: Baste the chicken with its own juices halfway through cooking for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Serve

Roasted chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a warm bread basket. The rich, flavorful chicken makes a great centerpiece for any meal, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a grand feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover roasted chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Use the leftovers in soups, salads, or sandwiches for easy meals later in the week.

Freezing

If you have more leftovers than you can eat, freeze the chicken for up to 2-3 months. After it cools, remove the meat from the bones, then store it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This is perfect for future meals like chicken tacos or chicken pot pie.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, place it in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, for about 10-15 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts, though cooking times will vary. Breasts typically need about 25-30 minutes in a 425°F oven.

2. Do I have to brine the chicken?

Brining is optional, but it helps the chicken stay moist and flavorful. If you skip the brine, make sure to season the chicken well.

3. How can I tell when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.

4. Can I make this recipe without fresh herbs?

You can use dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available, though fresh herbs provide a more vibrant flavor. Use about 1/3 of the amount called for when substituting dried herbs.

5. Can I roast the chicken at a lower temperature?

Yes, you can roast the chicken at a lower temperature (around 375°F), but it will take longer to cook.

6. How do I carve the chicken?

Start by removing the legs and thighs, then slice the breasts away from the bone. Finally, slice the meat into individual pieces.

7. Can I add vegetables to the roasting pan?

Absolutely! Root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and parsnips can be added around the chicken. They will cook in the flavorful drippings.

8. How do I make the chicken skin extra crispy?

For extra crispy skin, ensure the chicken is dry before adding the butter and roast it at a high temperature (425°F).

9. Can I make this recipe with a smaller chicken?

Yes, you can adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the chicken. A smaller bird will take less time to roast.

10. Can I use store-bought brine?

Yes, if you don’t want to make your own brine, store-bought options are available and can be used for the same effect.

Conclusion

Roasted chicken with garlic and herbs is a timeless dish that never disappoints. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on flavor, tenderness, and that irresistible golden, crispy skin. With fresh herbs and aromatic ingredients like garlic, lemon, and onion, each bite is bursting with rich, savory flavors. Brining the chicken (though optional) ensures it stays moist and flavorful, making it a go-to dish for any home cook. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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