Simple Lemon Herb Roast Chicken
Looking for easy chicken recipes? This lemon herb roast chicken is foolproof! Juicy, flavorful, and ready in under 2 hours. Get my simple tips for perfect results!

Alright, let's dive into this simple lemon herb roast chicken ! ever crave that sunday roast feel, but, you know, without spending all day in the kitchen? well, friend, you've hit the jackpot.
This easy chicken recipe is about to become your new bff.
Simple Lemon Herb Roast Chicken: Your New Go-To
This ain’t your grandma’s dry, boring chicken. think bright, zesty flavors combined with the comforting aroma of herbs. this recipe is like a mediterranean vacation, but in chicken form.
It hails from a long tradition of roasted poultry, where lemon and herbs give the chicken a special treatment, and i’ve tweaked it for maximum flavor and minimal effort.
Trust me , even i can't mess this up. it is one of top dinner recipes at my house!
This dish is honestly super easy . we're talking about 15 minutes of prep. pop it in the oven for a little over an hour, and boom! dinner is served.
This recipe will easily feed 4-6 hungry folks.
Simple Lemon Herb Roast Chicken Recipe Card

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds/ 1.3 - 1.8 kg), giblets removed
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- 1 lemon, halved
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) dried Italian herb blend (or a combination of rosemary, thyme, oregano)
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) black pepper
- Optional: 1 onion, quartered, for roasting bed
- Optional: 2 carrots, chopped, for roasting bed
- Optional: 2 celery stalks, chopped, for roasting bed
🥄 Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, inside and out. Squeeze one lemon half over the chicken, inside and out. Place the remaining lemon half inside the chicken cavity.
- Place quartered onion, chopped carrots, and celery stalks at the bottom of the roasting pan (optional).
- Place the chicken on top of the vegetables (or directly in the roasting pan if not using vegetables).
- Roast for approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with pan juices every 20-30 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Why This Chicken Rocks (Besides Being Delicious)
Okay, so besides tasting amazing, this chicken is actually pretty good for ya. chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is awesome for building muscle and keeping you feeling full.
Imagine serving this for a cozy sunday supper, a casual get-together with friends, or even a celebratory meal! this dish special lies in its simplicity.
I'm talking "wow" factor without the fuss. maybe you wanna make marry me chicken ? that's another dish! you can use the chicken in this recipe for that! why not add some pasta dinner recipes to the roast chicken recipe? or maybe a marry me chicken pasta , this is a game-changer! this roast chicken recipe could be considered as easy pasta dinner or fast dinner recipes .
The resep pasta ? you know, this chicken recipe is one of the yummy chicken recipes or even chicken pasta recipes .
Ready to get cooking? Let's gather the troops and grab the ingredients.
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this simple lemon herb roast chicken . i swear, even if you're known to burn water, this recipe is gonna be a winner.
Seriously, this is one of those top dinner recipes that becomes a weeknight staple.
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
Alright, grab these goodies:
- 1 whole chicken, about 3-4 pounds (1.3 - 1.8 kg) .
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil.
- 1 lemon, halved. Honestly, a juicy lemon makes all the difference.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced. The more garlic, the merrier, IMO.
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) dried Italian herb blend.
- 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt.
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) black pepper.
- Optional: 1 onion, quartered.
- Optional: 2 carrots, chopped.
- Optional: 2 celery stalks, chopped.
For the chicken, try to get one that looks plump and has good color. not all pale and sad, you know? this recipe pairs perfectly with the craze going on for marry me chicken , maybe a lemon chicken will be better suited for a date.
Seasoning Notes
Okay, the secret's in the spice. We're talking a classic Italian blend. Rosemary, thyme, oregano – the works. I usually just grab a pre-mixed blend to keep things easy .
- Essential spice combinations: Italian herbs, lemon, and garlic. It's like a flavor party in your mouth.
- Flavor enhancers and aromatics: Don't be shy with the garlic! It adds so much depth.
- Quick substitution options: No Italian blend? No worries! Use equal parts of rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Boom.
These are the ingredients, perfect for yummy chicken recipes . If you would like to create Chicken Pasta Recipes consider adding a bit of cream and make it a lemon creamy chicken pasta! So close to our marry me chicken pasta
Equipment Needed
Keep it simple, folks.
- Roasting pan. I use a basic metal one. Nothing fancy.
- Kitchen twine. Optional, but it helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Meat thermometer. This is a must! Make sure that chicken reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .
Don't have a roasting pan? use a baking dish with high sides. no twine? skip it! just make sure the legs are tucked in nicely.
And hey, if you're in a hurry, this is the fast dinner recipes you are looking for!
This will bring to you easy pasta dinner , as well as pasta dinner recipes . And if you are from Indonesia, consider that this Resep Pasta is easy to make!

Alright, buckle up buttercups! we're diving into a simple lemon herb roast chicken recipe so easy, it's practically criminal. honestly, i used to be terrified of roasting a whole chicken.
I thought it was some fancy, chef-level skill. boy, was i wrong.
Cooking Method: Roasting
Roasting is a game-changer. it's like, set it and forget it...mostly. you get that beautiful, evenly cooked bird with crispy skin.
It's a classic for a reason! i bet you’re looking for top dinner recipes right now!
Prep Like a Pro
- Essential mise en place: Get everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. Trust me. It saves time and stress.
- Time-saving organization tips: Use small bowls to hold your herbs and spices. Line your baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Safety reminders: Wash your hands! And keep raw chicken away from other foods to prevent cross-contamination. We don’t want any kitchen nightmares!
Step-by-Step: From Raw to Roast
- Preheat: Crank that oven to 400° F ( 200° C) .
- Pat Dry: Really dry the chicken with paper towels. Crispy skin depends on it!
- Herb It Up: Mix 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Italian herbs, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) salt, and 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) pepper.
- Flavor Bomb: Rub that herb mixture all over the chicken. Squeeze a lemon half all over. Shove the other half inside.
- Veggie Bed (Optional): Toss some chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the roasting pan.
- Roast Time: Place the chicken on the veggies.
- Cook Until Done: Roast for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes . Internal temp should be 165° F ( 74° C) . Baste with pan juices every 20 minutes or so.
- Rest: Let it rest for 10- 15 minutes before carving. Seriously, don't skip this.
Pro Tips for Chicken Nirvana
- Dry skin = crispy skin: Can't stress this enough.
- Meat thermometer is your friend: Don't guess! Get that temp right.
- Avoid Over-basting: Too much basting steams the skin, so keep it light!
Seriously this recipe is a keeper! it's perfect for when you want those easy chicken recipes . what i really wanted to make today was marry me chicken pasta , but i lacked the ingredients, so i decided to make this instead.
This is a fast dinner recipe , and one of my go-to yummy chicken recipes ! next time i think i'll actually cook it with some pasta! resep pasta !
Alright, let's dive into the nitty-gritty details of this easy chicken recipe ! these are my recipe notes. they're like the secret sauce to making this lemon herb roast chicken a total success.
I promise, even if you're just starting out, you'll nail it.
Recipe Notes
I've made this yummy chicken recipes so many times. I learned a few tricks along the way! So, listen up!
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro!
Okay, so presentation matters! first, let the chicken rest for 10 minutes. this locks in all the juices. slice it up and arrange it on a platter.
I like to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley. it just makes it look fancy, you know? for sides, think roasted potatoes.
They're a classic! or maybe some steamed green beans with a bit of almond slivers. super easy and always a hit.
A simple salad with a vinaigrette is also great to go with your top dinner recipes
For drinks? A crisp white wine or even just some iced tea works perfectly. It's all about balance, innit?
Storage Tips: Keep it Fresh!
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This chicken is fantastic the next day.
- Refrigeration: Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It'll keep for about 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze it, slice the chicken first. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It'll last for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C). Or you can microwave it. Just be careful not to overcook it!
Variations: Make it Your Own!
Honestly, this recipe is a blank canvas. You can switch things up pretty easily.
- Dietary adaptations: For a gluten-free meal, this recipe already fits! To lower the carbs, serve with cauliflower mash instead of potatoes. Easy peasy!
- Seasonal swaps: In the summer, use fresh basil and thyme. In the winter, rosemary and sage are cozy and delicious, and perfect with the pasta dinner recipes
Nutrition Basics: Goodness Inside!
Okay, let's talk numbers. Roughly, each serving has around 450 calories. There's 55g of protein and 25g of fat. Carbs are minimal, around 2g. Remember, this is just an estimate!
But more than that, this chicken is packed with protein. it's also got vitamins and minerals. and let's be real, it's good for the soul! i am telling you, this is one of the best easy chicken recipes ever! also, if you want a fast dinner recipes idea, try cutting the roast chicken and using it with a marry me chicken pasta , or look for resep pasta recipe on google.
Seriously, give this recipe a try. it's one of my favorite chicken pasta recipes , and i know you'll love it too.
It makes a perfect weeknight easy pasta dinner . don't be scared, you got this! and who knows? maybe you'll even create your own version of this marry me chicken !

Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to get super crispy skin on my roast chicken?
The secret to achieving that lovely crispy skin is to make sure the chicken is completely dry before you season it. Pat it down thoroughly with paper towels. Also, don't overcrowd the roasting pan – good air circulation helps with crisping. Basting with the pan juices also helps to make the skin crispy and golden brown.
How do I know when my chicken is actually cooked through? I don't want a culinary disaster!
A meat thermometer is your best friend here, old chap! Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh, making sure you don't touch the bone. The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Letting the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking is also vital – it helps redistribute the juices and ensures a tender, flavourful result.
Can I use different herbs in this easy chicken recipe? I'm not a huge fan of Italian seasoning.
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favourite herbs. Rosemary and thyme are classic choices that work wonderfully with lemon. You could also try adding a pinch of dried sage or some fresh parsley. Don't be afraid to put your own spin on things!
How long will leftover roast chicken last in the fridge, and what's the best way to store it?
Properly stored, cooked chicken will last for 3-4 days in the fridge. Allow the chicken to cool slightly before placing it in an airtight container. It’s best to carve the chicken first, then store the meat in the container. You can also shred the chicken for salads, sandwiches, or wraps!
Any ideas for using up leftover roast chicken? I hate wasting food!
Oh, there are loads of possibilities! You could whip up some chicken salad sandwiches, add it to a comforting chicken noodle soup, or use it as a topping for a homemade pizza. Chicken enchiladas or tacos are also great options. Get creative – the possibilities are endless!
Is this considered one of the healthier easy chicken recipes? What are the nutritional considerations?
Yes, this Lemon Herb Roast Chicken is a relatively healthy option, especially if you remove the skin before eating. It's a good source of lean protein and contains healthy fats from the olive oil. Be mindful of the salt content, especially if you're watching your sodium intake. Roasting the chicken with vegetables also adds extra vitamins and fiber to your meal. Check the specific brands to know an accurate nutritional value.
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