Lemon Rosemary Chicken Recipe

When it comes to classic chicken dishes, few can rival the timeless appeal of a seasonal lemon and rosemary roast chicken. This combination of zesty lemon and aromatic rosemary herb creates a burst of flavours that are simply refreshing. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this lemon rosemary chicken recipe is a simple yet delicious dish that will please your taste buds and impress your guests.

How to Make a Lemon and Rosemary Roast Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
• 2 lemons
• 4-5 fresh rosemary sprigs
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Preparing the Chicken

Start by washing the whole chicken thoroughly, inside and out. Pat it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken on a cutting board and tuck the wings under the body. Carefully separate the skin from the chicken breast by gently sliding your fingers between the skin and the meat, creating a pocket without tearing the skin.

Marinating the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the juice of one lemon, minced garlic, and olive oil. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients well. Pour the marinade into the pocket you created under the chicken skin, ensuring it covers the breast meat evenly. Place a few rosemary sprigs inside the chicken cavity for added flavour. Squeeze the juice of the second lemon over the entire chicken and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Rub it into the skin for a flavourful crust.

Roasting the Lemon Rosemary Chicken

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Place the marinated chicken in a roasting pan or oven proof skillet. Add the remaining rosemary sprigs and some lemon slices to the pan for extra flavour. Roast the whole chicken for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the thigh.

Serving

Once it is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven. Allow the chicken to rest for about 15 minutes to let the juices redistribute then carve it into serving portions. Serve your Lemon Rosemary Chicken with your favourite sides, such as herby roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with Christmas side dishes, such as roasted root vegetables, and cranberry sauce.

Enjoy!

Be sure to also check out our helpful guide on How To Harvest and Prune Rosemary.