This succulent herb-roasted chicken recipe is guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds with its juicy tenderness and flavorful herb-infused aroma. It’s the perfect dish to impress your family and guests alike, bringing warmth and satisfaction to any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds), giblets removed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, halved
- Optional: additional sprigs of fresh herbs for garnish
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the chicken inside and out under cold water, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Place the chicken in a roasting pan or large baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped thyme, rosemary, sage, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the herbs are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Carefully loosen the skin of the chicken from the meat using your fingers, being careful not to tear the skin. Take half of the herb butter mixture and spread it evenly underneath the skin of the chicken, covering as much of the breast and thigh meat as possible.
- Rub the remaining herb butter mixture all over the outside of the chicken, coating it evenly. Squeeze the juice from one half of the lemon over the chicken, then place both lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken.
- Tie the legs of the chicken together with kitchen twine if desired, to help hold its shape while roasting. Place the chicken in the preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when tested with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone.
- Once the chicken is cooked through and golden brown, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Garnish with additional sprigs of fresh herbs if desired, then serve and enjoy your delicious herb-roasted chicken!
