Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this Herb and Citrus Oven Roasted Chicken. Imagine a perfectly golden-brown bird, infused with zesty citrus and aromatic herbs, so tender it practically falls off the bone. This isn't just another chicken recipe - it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this foolproof method guarantees a restaurant-quality meal that looks and tastes like you've trained in a professional kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 lemons, sliced
- 1 orange, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve a crispy skin on the chicken.
- Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This step helps to ensure the skin gets crispy during roasting.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. This will be your herb and citrus marinade.
- Rub the herb and citrus marinade all over the chicken, making sure to cover the entire surface, including under the skin where possible. This will infuse the chicken with flavor.
- Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the sliced lemons and oranges. This will add moisture and a citrusy aroma while the chicken roasts.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or on a baking sheet. If you have a rack, you can place the chicken on it to allow air to circulate around the bird.
- Arrange any remaining lemon and orange slices around the chicken in the pan. This not only adds flavor but also makes for a beautiful presentation.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
- During roasting, you can baste the chicken with the juices from the pan every 20 minutes to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Carve the chicken and serve it with the roasted citrus slices and any pan juices. Enjoy your delicious herb and citrus oven roasted chicken!
Tips
- Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning - this is the key to achieving that irresistibly crispy skin.
- Don't be shy with the herb marinade - massage it thoroughly, even under the skin for maximum flavor penetration.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Let the chicken rest after roasting to keep the meat juicy and tender.
- For extra flavor, try using fresh herbs instead of dried if available.
- Choose a high-quality, organic chicken for the best taste and texture.
- Basting is crucial - it keeps the meat moist and helps develop a beautiful golden color.
- The citrus inside the cavity not only adds flavor but helps keep the chicken moist during roasting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 140mg
