Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering Italian culinary experience with this irresistible Pollo Arrosto al Limone! Imagine a golden, crispy-skinned chicken infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, so tender it practically melts in your mouth. This classic Italian roast chicken recipe isn't just a meal—it's a sensory journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-drenched kitchens of Italy, all while being surprisingly simple to prepare.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
- 2 lemons, juiced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary for garnish
Instructions
- Remove the whole chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix the lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a marinade. Gently loosen the chicken skin and rub half of the marinade directly onto the chicken meat under the skin.
- Rub the remaining marinade over the outside of the chicken, ensuring even coverage. Squeeze additional lemon juice inside the chicken cavity.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. If possible, use a rack to elevate the chicken and allow air circulation.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 60-70 minutes. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Every 20 minutes, baste the chicken with its own juices to maintain moisture and promote even browning.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs before serving. Carve the chicken and serve with the pan drippings.
Tips
- • Always bring your chicken to room temperature before roasting to ensure even cooking. • Pat the chicken completely dry to achieve that coveted crispy skin. • Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked chicken every time. • Basting is crucial - it keeps the meat moist and helps develop a beautiful golden color. • Let the chicken rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness. • Don't skip the fresh rosemary garnish - it adds an authentic Italian aromatic touch. • For extra flavor, try stuffing the cavity with lemon wedges or herbs before roasting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 260kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 30g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 55mg
