Celebrate your special day with a show-stopping "Birthday Week Meal Plan" that will leave your taste buds dancing! This succulent roasted chicken, infused with zesty lemons and aromatic garlic, is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together. With a crispy skin that gives way to juicy, tender meat, this dish is sure to impress your guests and make your birthday unforgettable. Ready to elevate your culinary game? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Various
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 2 lemons, halved
- 1 head of garlic, halved
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the whole chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels to help achieve crispy skin.
- Prepare the chicken by removing any giblets from the cavity and trimming excess fat. Rinse the chicken inside and out, then pat completely dry.
- Season the chicken's interior generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with halved lemons, garlic head, and fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs.
- Tie the chicken legs together with kitchen twine to help it cook evenly. Tuck the wing tips under the body to prevent burning.
- Rub the entire exterior of the chicken with olive oil, then season liberally with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. Arrange any remaining herbs around the chicken.
- Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
- 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 with the roasted lemons and garlic from the cavity as accompanying garnishes.
Tips
- Bring the Chicken to Room Temperature: Allow your chicken to sit out for about 30 minutes before cooking. This step helps ensure even cooking and a perfectly juicy result.
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning. This removes excess moisture and helps achieve that coveted crispy skin.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Generous seasoning inside and out enhances the flavor of the chicken, making every bite delicious.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme not only add flavor but also create a wonderful aroma while the chicken roasts. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs!
- Rest Before Carving: After roasting, let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Serve with Roasted Garnishes: Don’t forget to serve the roasted lemons and garlic from the cavity! They make a fantastic garnish and add a burst of flavor to your dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 110mg
