Classic Garlic Lemon Roasted Chicken

A simple, savory featuring juicy roasted chicken with bright lemon and aromatics. Perfect for weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner.

• 1 whole (3–4 pounds gib removed
  -4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and quartered
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon thyme (or 1 fresh)
  -1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water (for roasting pan)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425 (220°C). Pat chicken dry with towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, zest, olive oil, salt, pepper,, paprika.
3. Rub the mixture over chicken including the skin where possible for flavor4. Stuff the lemon quarters into the cavity.
4. Place the chicken breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Add the broth the pan.
5. Roast for 60–75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches165 (74°C in the thickest part of the.
6. Let the rest for 10 minutes before carving. Spoon pan juices the meat and serve.

Tips and Variations

• For crisper, roast at 450 (°C for the first 15 minutes, then reduce to °F (190°C) the remainder.
• Add chopped fresh (rosemary or parsley) to the pan extra fragrance.
• Use remaining pan juices to make a quick sauce: simmer with a splash of white wine or more broth, then thicken with a teaspoon of corarch slurry if desired.

Servings and Time

• Servings: 4–6- Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: –75 minutes
• Total time 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes

Suggested Sides

• Roast vegetables (atoes, carrots, onions)
• Steamed green beans or a crisp salad
• Crusty bread for dunk the pan juices