Prepare to transform an ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This rosemary garlic roasted chicken is not just a meal, it's an experience that combines the robust flavors of fresh herbs, zesty lemon, and perfectly crispy skin. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality results that will make you feel like a professional chef in your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 lemon, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Place a rack in the center of the oven to ensure proper heat circulation.
- Pat the chicken thoroughly dry with paper towels. This helps achieve crispy, golden skin during roasting.
- In a small bowl, mix minced garlic, chopped rosemary, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create a fragrant herb rub.
- Gently separate the chicken skin from the meat using your fingers, being careful not to tear the skin.
- Massage the herb mixture under the skin and all over the exterior of the chicken, ensuring even coverage.
- Stuff the chicken cavity with lemon halves to infuse additional citrus flavor during roasting.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet, ensuring it's not overcrowded.
- Roast the chicken for approximately 1 hour and 15-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Baste the chicken with pan juices every 20-25 minutes to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.
- Once cooked, 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 hot, garnishing with additional fresh rosemary sprigs if desired.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let your chicken come to room temperature before roasting to ensure even cooking.
- Dry Skin is Key: Pat the chicken completely dry before seasoning to achieve that irresistibly crispy, golden skin.
- Herb Rub Technique: Gently separate the skin from the meat to massage the herb mixture directly onto the meat for maximum flavor penetration.
- Basting is Essential: Regular basting (every 20-25 minutes) keeps the chicken moist and develops a rich, deep flavor.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: Always check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the thigh to ensure it's perfectly cooked.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes after roasting to redistribute the juices, guaranteeing moist and tender meat.
- Optional Garnish: Fresh rosemary sprigs not only look beautiful but add an extra burst of aromatic flavor to your finished dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
