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Dinner

Simple Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken

This classic roasted chicken is a reliable favorite that brings a comforting aroma to your kitchen.

By Daily Recipes Book· 🌍 American· July 15, 2026
Simple Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
dailyrecipesbook.com
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
75 minutes
Total
90 minutes
Serves
4

There is nothing quite like the smell of a whole chicken roasting in the oven to make a house feel like a home. This recipe is a staple in my kitchen because it is straightforward and produces juicy meat with perfectly crispy skin every single time.

I find that letting the chicken sit at room temperature for a few minutes before putting it in the oven helps it cook more evenly. It is a simple trick, but it really makes a difference in the final texture.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole roasting chicken, about 4 pounds
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 lemon, halved

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

  2. 2

    Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the skin gets crispy.

  3. 3

    In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.

  4. 4

    Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin of the breast area.

  5. 5

    Place the lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken.

  6. 6

    Place the chicken in a roasting pan or a large cast iron skillet.

  7. 7

    Roast for about 60 to 75 minutes, or until an instant read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

  8. 8

    Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving to keep the juices inside.

💡 Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can shred the cold meat to add to salads for a quick lunch the next day. If you have extra herbs, feel free to toss them into the pan for more flavor.

#dinner#chicken#roast#healthy#high protein#gluten free

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