Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is a fragrant and flavorful dish featuring tender, juicy chicken pieces roasted to perfection with fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus. It’s a comforting yet elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Features a crisp, golden skin and juicy, flavorful meat
- Infused with fresh herbs and bright citrus notes
- Requires minimal ingredients and prep time
- Perfect for make-ahead meals and leftovers
- Pairs well with a variety of sides from vegetables to grains
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
- Fresh lemon slices and lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley)
- Salt and black pepper
- Chopped chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken pieces, placing extra underneath the skin.
- Arrange the chicken in a baking dish and top with lemon slices.
- Roast for 35–45 minutes, or until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with herbs or chives if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Add baby potatoes or carrots to the baking dish for a complete one-pan meal
- Use chicken drumsticks or a whole chicken for variety
- Swap herbs to suit your taste—oregano and basil work well
- Add a splash of white wine to the pan for extra depth
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, or use a microwave for convenience.
FAQs
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time to avoid drying out the meat.
How do I get crispy skin?
Ensure the skin is dry before roasting and don’t cover during baking.
Can I use dried herbs?
Yes, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
What sides go well with this?
Rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad are all great choices.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely, it enhances the flavor even more.
Is this suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats well and pairs with many side options.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes depending on thickness.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze cooked portions for up to 3 months.
What can I substitute for lemon?
Lime or orange can provide a similar citrus brightness.
How do I prevent dry chicken?
Use bone-in, skin-on pieces and avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is a wholesome, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation and vibrant taste, it’s a go-to recipe that’s sure to impress.
Print
Lemon Herb Roasted
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is a fragrant and flavorful dish with juicy, tender meat roasted alongside fresh herbs, garlic, and bright citrus for a comforting and elegant meal.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin for extra flavor.
- Place chicken in a baking dish and top with lemon slices.
- Roast for 35–45 minutes, or until skin is golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped chives or green onions if desired.
Notes
- Add baby potatoes or carrots to make it a one-pan meal.
- Use drumsticks or a whole chicken for variety.
- Swap in oregano or basil for a different herb profile.
- Add a splash of white wine to the pan for deeper flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken piece
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
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