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–+ servings

Citrus-Herb Roast Chicken

This roast chicken combines bright citrus and fragrant herbs with high-heat roasting to achieve irresistibly crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. Marinated with lemon, garlic, and a herb blend, it becomes a festive centerpiece with a flavorful, aromatic crust. The dish is perfect for holiday gatherings and makes excellent leftovers for sandwiches and salads.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Holiday
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Calories: 450kcal
Author: James Taylor
Servings: 6

Equipment

  • Roasting pan with rack
  • Meat thermometer
  • Basting Brush
  • Kitchen twine

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken 4-5kg, preferably organic
  • 2 large lemons halved, plus zest for skin
  • 4 cloves garlic crushed
  • 2 sprigs rosemary fresh
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Place a rack inside a roasting pan to ensure even heat circulation.
    Preheat your oven
  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, both inside and out, to help achieve crisp skin.
    Pat the chicken
  • Mix the olive oil with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and sage. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to coat every surface evenly.
    Mix the olive oil with salt
  • Zest one lemon and sprinkle the zest over the chicken skin to add a bright citrus aroma.
  • Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, crushed garlic cloves, and sprigs of rosemary for infused flavor.
  • Truss the chicken with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking and a neat presentation.
    Truss the chicken
  • Place the chicken breast side up on the rack in the roasting pan and slide it into the oven.
  • Roast for about 1 hour 20 minutes, basting every 20 minutes with the pan juices to keep the skin moist and flavorful.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F). The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
    Check the internal
  • Remove the chicken from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes to lock in juices.
    Once cooked
  • Carve the chicken and serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a beautiful, flavorful meal.
    Untruss the chicken

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 55g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 4.5g | Cholesterol: 150mg | Sodium: 800mg | Potassium: 700mg | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 2mg