Whole Roasted Chicken Lemon Herbs

Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites

This Whole Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Herbs is a classic, flavorful dish that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Anna Johnson

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-25T21:10:28.795Z

This recipe for Whole Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Herbs is not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious. The aromatic herbs combined with zesty lemon create a mouth-watering dish that will impress your guests.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Juicy, tender meat infused with fresh herbs and lemon
  • A beautiful centerpiece for any dinner table
  • Simple preparation with minimal cleanup

A Flavorful Experience

This Whole Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Herbs is not just a meal; it's an experience. The bright, zesty flavor of the lemons pairs beautifully with the aromatic herbs, creating a dish that tantalizes the taste buds. As the chicken roasts, the aromas fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table. The combination of citrus and herbs not only enhances the taste but also adds a lovely presentation, making it a feast for the eyes as well.

Using fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley elevates this dish beyond the ordinary. Their natural oils infuse the chicken with depth and complexity, resulting in juicy, tender meat that falls off the bone. This recipe allows you to enjoy the simplicity of fresh ingredients and the joy of home-cooked meals, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Effortless Preparation

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. The process starts with a quick rinse and dry of the chicken, followed by a generous rub of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stuffing the cavity with lemon and herbs requires just a few moments, yet it makes all the difference in flavor.

After placing the chicken in the oven, you can sit back and relax while it roasts to perfection. This hands-off cooking method allows you to focus on other tasks or enjoy quality time with your loved ones. The result is a beautifully roasted chicken that not only delights your palate but also minimizes cleanup, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Serving Suggestions

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
  • 2 lemons, cut into wedges
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley)
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use fresh herbs for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

Season the Chicken

Rub the chicken with olive oil, ensuring it is evenly coated. Season generously with salt and pepper inside and out. Stuff the cavity with lemon wedges, minced garlic, and fresh herbs.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. Serve warm with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your deliciously roasted chicken!

Tips for Perfect Roasting

To ensure your chicken turns out perfectly roasted, it's essential to choose a high-quality bird. Look for free-range or organic chickens that are fresh and plump. These options often yield better flavor and texture compared to conventional varieties. Additionally, let your chicken come to room temperature before roasting; this helps it cook evenly and results in a crispy skin.

Don't skip the resting time after roasting. Allowing the chicken to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving is crucial for juicy meat. This resting period lets the juices redistribute throughout the bird, preventing them from running out when you slice into it. Trust us; your taste buds will thank you!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover chicken, you're in luck! Whole roasted chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. You can also freeze portions for longer storage, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish on busy weeknights.

When reheating, consider using the oven to preserve the chicken's moisture and flavor. Cover it with foil to prevent drying out, and heat at a low temperature until warmed through. This method ensures that your leftovers taste just as wonderful as when they were freshly roasted.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It's best to use fresh chicken, but if using frozen, ensure it's completely thawed before cooking.

→ What can I serve with roasted chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad complement this dish well.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Roasted chicken is best served fresh, but you can prepare it a few hours in advance and reheat it before serving.

Whole Roasted Chicken Lemon Herbs

This Whole Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Herbs is a classic, flavorful dish that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration90 minutes
Overall Time110 minutes

Created by: Anna Johnson

Recipe Type: Homestyle Recipe Favorites

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4-6 servings

What You'll Need

For the Chicken

  1. 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
  2. 2 lemons, cut into wedges
  3. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  4. Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley)
  5. Olive oil
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.

Step 02

Rub the chicken with olive oil, ensuring it is evenly coated. Season generously with salt and pepper inside and out. Stuff the cavity with lemon wedges, minced garlic, and fresh herbs.

Step 03

Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 04

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. Serve warm with your choice of sides.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 40g