Lemon Roasted Chicken
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
45 mins
-
Cook Time
1 hr 15 mins
-
Total Time
2 hrs
-
Servings
4 servings
-
Calories
532 kcal
-
Course
Main Course
-
Cuisine
American
Lemon Roasted Chicken
Description
This recipe for Lemon Roasted Chicken involves blending softened butter with olive oil, lemon zest, juice, minced garlic, and seasonings. The mixture is massaged underneath the breast skin and spread over the surface to evenly coat the bird. After marinating in the refrigerator, the chicken is stuffed with lemon slices and onion halves, tied at the legs, and roasted at high then moderate heat.
The technique helps render flavorful juices and produces a flavorful, moist interior with a golden, fragrant skin. The garlic and lemon provide brightness and a balanced savory profile, while careful cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F ensures safe, tender meat.
This roasted chicken pairs well with side vegetables or grains and can be served as a satisfying main dish for a family meal. The recipe also notes it can be prepared on a rotisserie for even cooking and crispy skin.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter softened
- 1 lemon
- 3-4 cloves garlic minced
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1 chicken approx. 3 pounds, whole
Instructions
- Zest the yellow rind of the lemon. Cut the lemon in half and juice half of the lemon into a small bowl. Add the rind, olive oil, softened butter, garlic, salt and pepper. Stir well (the mixture should be fairly thick).
- Gently lift the skin from the chicken breasts and place about 1 tablespoon of the butter mixture under the skin. Massage it evenly across the breasts.
- Cover the skin of the chicken with the remaining butter mixture. Refrigerate for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Slice the remaining lemon half and place it inside the chicken along with ½ an onion. Tie the legs together. Place the chicken in a shallow pan breast side up and place in oven.
- Turn oven down to 375°F and bake for 1 ¼ hours or until the inner thigh reaches 165°F.
Notes
- The chicken can also be cooked on a rotisserie, which helps develop even crispness on the skin and juicy interior.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 532 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 532 | 27% |
| Carbohydrates | 3g | 1% |
| Protein | 35g | 70% |
| Fat | 41g | 63% |
| Saturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Cholesterol | 157mg | 52% |
| Sodium | 184mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 406mg | 9% |
| Vitamin A | 440IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 18.1mg | 20% |
| Calcium | 32mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1.9mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
You'll Also Love
