Lemon Butter Herb Roast Chicken

Introduction:

Lemon Butter Herb Roast Chicken is a classic, comforting, and flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into an aromatic, golden masterpiece. With crispy skin, juicy meat, and a zesty herb-infused butter, this roast chicken is perfect for family dinners, holidays, or an impressive weekend meal. Roasting a whole chicken isn’t just economical — it’s deeply satisfying, and your kitchen will smell incredible.

Why I Love This Recipe:

• The lemon-garlic-herb butter seeps into the chicken, making it extra juicy and flavorful.
• It’s a one-pan wonder — add veggies underneath for a complete meal.
• It makes for amazing leftovers (think chicken salad, sandwiches, or soups).
• Perfectly crisp skin with minimal effort — the oven does most of the work!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish:

• It’s easy enough for beginners and impressive enough for guests.
• No artificial flavors — just fresh herbs, butter, lemon, and garlic.
• It’s a dish that makes you feel like a chef in your own kitchen.
• Great for meal prep or special occasions.

Time Information:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes

Calories (per serving):

Approx. 400–500 calories (based on 6 servings, includes skin and butter)

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (3.5–4.5 lbs), patted dry
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 head of garlic, halved horizontally
• Fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley sprigs (a few of each)

For the Lemon Herb Butter:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Special Equipment Needed:

• Roasting pan or oven-safe skillet
• Meat thermometer
• Basting brush or spoon
• Kitchen twine (optional, for trussing)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Position rack in the center.

Step 2: Make the Herb Butter

• In a bowl, combine softened butter, chopped herbs, garlic, lemon zest, juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken

• Remove any giblets from the chicken cavity. Pat chicken very dry with paper towels.
• Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper.
• Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, halved garlic head, and a few herb sprigs.

Step 4: Apply the Herb Butter

• Gently loosen the skin over the breast meat using your fingers.
• Rub about 2/3 of the herb butter under the skin, and spread the rest over the top and sides of the chicken.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken

• Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or skillet.
• Roast for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a thermometer inserted in the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
• Baste once or twice with pan juices.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

• Let the chicken rest for 10–15 minutes before carving. This locks in the juices.
• Serve with pan drippings, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

How to Serve:

• Slice and serve with roasted potatoes, green beans, or a crusty baguette.
• Drizzle with the lemony pan juices.
• Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon slices for presentation.

Recipe Tips & Variations:

Tips:

• Dry the chicken thoroughly for crispy skin.
• Don’t skip the resting time after roasting — it keeps the meat juicy.
• Add root vegetables (like carrots, potatoes, or onions) around the chicken to roast with it.

Variations:

• Spicy twist: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika to the herb butter.
• Citrus swap: Use orange or lime instead of lemon for a different zing.
• Herb substitute: Use dried herbs if fresh aren’t available (1/3 amount).

Freezing and Storage:

Storage:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze cooked chicken (meat removed from bones) in airtight bags for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion:

Lemon Butter Herb Roast Chicken is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. With its rich aroma, crispy golden skin, and juicy herb-infused meat, it’s everything you want in a roasted chicken — rustic, elegant, and full of flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this recipe is a must-try staple that never disappoints.