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–+ servings
Roast Chicken

Roast Chicken: Juicy, Golden, Sunday Family Favorite

Enjoy a juicy roast chicken that brings families together with its zesty lemon and fragrant rosemary flavors.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Resting Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 whole roasting chicken (5 to 6 pounds) Ensure it’s thawed if frozen.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Can substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter.
  • 2 to 3 medium lemons Feel free to substitute with oranges or limes.
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary Fresh thyme or sage can be used as alternatives.
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary Use dried rosemary, reduce amount if using.
  • 1 tablespoon coarsely ground pepper Black or white pepper can be substituted.
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt Adjust based on taste; kosher salt for better texture.

Equipment

  • roasting pan
  • Kitchen string
  • meat thermometer
  • Zester

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Zest 2 medium lemons and chop them coarsely. Place them in the cavity along with the rosemary.
  3. Truss the chicken legs together using kitchen string if desired.
  4. Place the chicken on a roasting rack in a shallow roasting pan. Drizzle with olive oil.
  5. Rub the chicken skin with the lemon zest, minced rosemary, salt, and pepper mixture.
  6. Roast in the oven uncovered for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, basting occasionally.
  7. Monitor browning; tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1quarter of a chickenCalories: 450kcalProtein: 35gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 700mgVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 1mgIron: 8mg

Notes

For best results, ensure the chicken skin is dried thoroughly before applying oil and seasoning. Baste often for added moisture and flavor. Allow resting for optimal juiciness and flavor.

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