Roast Chicken with Lemon, Rosemary & Thyme

Roast Chicken Perfection! My Lemon & Herb Family Favorite

By Chef BakerMay 24, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever wondered what makes chicken dishes truly special? honestly, it's often the simplest things! this roast chicken is not just food.

It's proper melt in your mouth chicken with a zingy lemon and herb vibe.

Brief Overview

Roast chicken is proper british comfort food. proper sunday roast sort of stuff! this version takes under two hours and serves 4-6.

It's easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for guests.

Main Benefits

This chicken breast recipe is packed with protein and flavor. it's brilliant for a sunday lunch or a cozy dinner.

What makes this recipe special is the fragrant herb butter. it gets under the skin and infuses the whole bird.

Time to get cooking with some Hearty Chicken !

How to Make Your Roast Chook Sing

First, let's talk ingredients.

You need one whole chicken. Around 3-4 lbs is perfect.
Grab a lemon, some rosemary, and thyme. These are key.
Olive oil is a must, too.
For the herb butter, softened butter, garlic, salt, and pepper are all you need.

Seriously, it's that easy. You probably have half of this already!

Crispy Skin Secrets

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. You know? This is super important. This helps get that lovely crispy skin we all crave.

Next, make that herb butter. Mix the softened butter with rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Smells amazing, doesn't it?

Now, for the fun part. Gently loosen the skin on the chicken. Rub that herb butter underneath and all over the bird. This is what gives it that amazing flavor.

Getting the Oven On

Preheat your oven to 425° F ( 220° C). Pop the lemon halves, rosemary, and thyme into the chicken cavity. Place the chicken in a roasting pan. Drizzle with olive oil.

Roast for 15 minutes at the high heat, then reduce the heat to 350° f ( 175° c). continue roasting for about 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.

Check with a meat thermometer. it should reach 165° f ( 74° c).

Let the chicken rest for 10- 15 minutes before carving. Tent it with foil. This is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute and makes it super juicy.

Optional bit: make some gravy with the pan drippings. Proper Tasty Chicken deserves proper gravy!

So, there you have it! a cracking roast chicken recipe that's sure to impress. don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices.

Get creative and have fun! you'll have one of the most amazing chicken meals in no time. cheers!

Right then, let's talk chicken dishes! i'm properly excited to share this one, because it's easy and impressive. forget fancy restaurants.

We're doing roast chicken with lemon, rosemary & thyme. trust me, it's a winner. you know, the kind of thing that makes everyone go, "ooh, you're a domestic goddess!".

Getting Started: What You'll Need

No need to panic. We're not talking mad scientist levels of equipment here. Just the basics!

Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

One whole chicken, around 3-4 lbs (1.3-1.8 kg) , giblets removed. Quality is key here! Look for free range if you can. Happy chickens are tasty chickens, you know?
One lemon, halved. Go for a juicy one!
One sprig of fresh rosemary. Sniff it! You want that aaah feeling.
Two sprigs of fresh thyme. Same deal, fresh is best.
2 tbsp olive oil. Nothing fancy, just good quality.

Herb Butter Magic: Prep Like a Pro

4 tbsp (1/2 stick / 57g) unsalted butter, softened. Honestly, leave it out for a bit. Microwaved butter is just sad butter.
1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary. Chop it small, like you mean it.
1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme. Same again, small chop.
One clove garlic, minced. Minced, not murdered.
1/2 tsp salt. Sea salt is my go-to.
1/4 tsp black pepper. Freshly ground, if you're feeling fancy.

Gravy Goodness (Optional, But Seriously, Why Skip It?)

2 tbsp (20g) all-purpose flour. Don't use self raising by accident, that's just messy.
1 cup (240ml) chicken broth. Good quality stuff.
Salt and pepper to taste. You know your tastebuds, trust them!

Seasoning Notes: Flavour Town

This is where the magic happens!

Rosemary and Thyme: This is your classic combo for a reason. Earthy and aromatic. You can’t go wrong.
Garlic: The king of flavour enhancers. Don't skimp!
Lemon: Brightens everything up. Cuts through the richness.
Spice it up: Want a bit of a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb butter!
Mediterranean twist?: Use oregano and basil instead of rosemary and thyme. Chuck in some sun-dried tomatoes too. Boom.

Equipment Needed: Nothing Scary, Promise!

Roasting pan. Needs to be big enough for the chicken.
Roasting rack (optional, but recommended). Lifts the chicken, for even cooking.
Meat thermometer. Seriously, get one. It's the only way to be sure.
Small bowl for herb butter. Nothing special.
Basting Spoon. For slathering all those delicious juices back over the bird.

Alternatives, if you're short on kit:

Don't have a roasting rack? Use some chopped root vegetables like carrots and onions to lift the chicken.
No meat thermometer? (Honestly, get one!) Check the juices run clear when you pierce the thigh with a knife.
Why should you try this? A Roast Chicken with Lemon, Rosemary & Thyme is truly a champion when it comes to achieving that Melt In Your Mouth Chicken goodness. It's a blank canvas for Chicken Dinner Ideas , providing a Tasty Chicken centerpiece that's also surprisingly Chicken Recipes Healthy . It's not just Chicken Breast Recipes Baked , but a whole bird, delivering Hearty Chicken that satisfies. It's one of those Fast Dinner Recipes too, ideal for Sheet Pan Meals or Pan Dinners . This Roast Chicken with Lemon, Rosemary & Thyme is a winner, I tell ya. It is one of those Chicken Meals that hits the spot every time.

Right then, let's chat about roasting! specifically, how to nail a cracking roast chicken with lemon, rosemary & thyme. i love making chicken dishes and honestly? this one's a winner.

It's proper easy, but tastes like you've been slaving away all day. who doesn't love that? i've had it on many sunday lunch.

Roasting Right: Prep Like a Pro

It all starts with a bit of mise en place , as the posh chefs say. basically, get your ducks in a row.

First, the essential bits: we're talking a whole chicken about 3-4 lbs. then, grab a lemon, fresh rosemary, and thyme.

Don't forget the olive oil! honestly, it's a cornerstone for chicken dinner ideas .

For the herb butter, you’ll need butter (softened, mind!), more rosemary and thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. time saving tip? get your herbs chopped while the butter softens.

Safety? wash your hands, obviously! chicken recipes healthy start with good hygiene.

Roasting Right: step-by-step Magic

Here's the easy bit:

Pat the chicken dry. Seriously, dry .
Mix your softened butter, herbs, and garlic.
Shove that herby butter under the chicken skin.
Stuff the lemon, rosemary, and thyme inside the chicken.
Drizzle with olive oil.
Roast at 425° F ( 220° C) for 15 minutes .
Then, turn the heat down to 350° F ( 175° C) and roast for 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes , until a thermometer reads 165° F ( 74° C) . Baste it every now and again.
Rest it for 10 mins.

It’s proper simple. The visual cue you're looking for is a lovely, golden brown bird. That's what separates the good from the great Chicken Recipes Baked

Roasting Right: Pro Secrets Unleashed

Want next level flavour? try these expert tips. one, dry the chicken skin. you can't have melt in your mouth chicken if it's got soggy skin.

Two, don't overcrowd the pan. three, use a meat thermometer. honest, it's worth it. a common mistake? not resting the chicken.

Don't skip it!

You could prep the herb butter the day before, just keep it in the fridge. speaking of fridges, you could make it into a chicken casserole recipes , pop in the oven, and bing bang boom, you got dinner.

With its Tasty Chicken and crispy skin, this Roast Chicken with Lemon, Rosemary & Thyme makes for Hearty Chicken , that’s far more exciting than basic Chicken Breast Recipe

What’s more? i once served this up for a dinner party and everyone raved about it. the lemon and herb flavors are a real crowd pleaser.

And it's surprisingly simple to make, even if you're not a seasoned chef. you know? perfect for those who love fast dinner recipes and sheet pan meals .

Forget about just garlic parmesan chicken , this lemon, rosemary & thyme roast chicken is where it’s at! especially when paired with parmesan chicken and potatoes for a wholesome chicken and potatoes meal that’s a cut above your average pan dinners .

Enjoy your homemade chicken meals !

Right then, let’s talk about making this Roast Chicken with Lemon, Rosemary & Thyme truly your own. It’s not just about following the steps. It’s about making it your Sunday dinner masterpiece.

Recipe Notes That Will Blow Your Mind

Honestly, the recipe is just a jumping off point. Let's chat about making this tasty chicken dinner perfect for you.

Serving It Up Like A Pro

Okay, so you've got this glorious bird. Now what? Forget just plonking it on a plate. Think presentation!

Plating and presentation ideas imagine slicing the melt in your mouth chicken breast and arranging it artfully. place it with a spoonful of pan juices.

Garnish with a sprig of rosemary. for a family style vibe, serve the whole chicken on a wooden board. carve it at the table.

Complementary sides or beverages roast chicken screams for classic sides. think buttery mashed potatoes or roasted root veggies. don't forget the gravy! as for drinks, a crisp white wine goes down a treat.

A light bodied red works too.

Storage Tips

Life happens, doesn’t it? sometimes, you've got leftovers. and sometimes, you even intentionally make extra to use the extra hearty chicken in future meals.

Here's the lowdown on how to store your glorious bird.

Refrigeration Guidelines Pop any leftover chicken in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure it cools down completely before you refrigerate.

Freezing options (if applicable) you can freeze cooked chicken. shred it first. then portion it into freezer bags. it's brilliant for chicken casserole recipes or fast dinner recipes .

It'll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions Reheat gently in the oven. Or, use the microwave. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Variations: Get Creative!

This recipe is a starting point. Let your imagination run wild! This can become several different chicken dishes with a little variation.

1-2 Dietary Adaptations Need a gluten-free version? Easy! Use cornstarch for the gravy instead of flour. Want a dairy-free version? Use olive oil instead of butter in the herb rub.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps Use different herbs depending on the season. In the summer, try basil and oregano. In the autumn, sage and thyme are your friends.

Nutrition Basics

Let's be real, we all like to know what we're putting into our bodies.

Simplified Nutrition Information This Chicken Breast Recipe is packed with protein. It's lean and relatively low in carbs. This will depend on your sides, mind you!

Key Health Benefits Chicken is a great source of lean protein. It's packed with vitamins and minerals. It's a solid choice when it comes to chicken recipes healthy.

Honestly, this recipe is all about making a classic dish your own. don’t be afraid to experiment. try different herbs, spices, and sides.

Most importantly, have fun! get in the kitchen. enjoy the process. and don't forget to share your creations with those you love.

You've got this! plus if you like this you might want to try our garlic parmesan chicken and chicken and potatoes recipes

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make sure my roast chicken has super crispy skin?

Right, achieving crispy skin is a bit like getting a perfectly brewed cuppa it's all about the details! The most important thing is to pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels before you season it. This removes excess moisture.

Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as that can steam the chicken rather than roast it. For an extra crispy touch, you can also try broiling the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking, but watch it like a hawk so it doesn't burn!

What temperature should my roast chicken be to make sure it's cooked through?

You'll want to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, without touching the bone. Investing in a meat thermometer is a good shout; it's the most reliable way to check for doneness.

Remember to let the chicken rest for about 10-15 minutes after it comes out of the oven. During this time, the internal temperature will rise a few degrees, and the juices will redistribute, giving you a more tender and juicy result. A little bit like letting a good steak rest!

Can I use different herbs or spices to change up the flavor of this chicken dishes recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation. For a Mediterranean twist, try using oregano and basil instead of rosemary and thyme. A pinch of red pepper flakes in the herb butter can add a bit of a kick.

Don't be shy about adding some paprika for color or garlic powder if you're short on fresh cloves. Think of it like a culinary jazz solo improvise and make it your own!

How long can I store leftover roast chicken, and what's the best way to reheat it?

Leftover roast chicken is great for all sorts of things, from sandwiches to salads! Properly stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will last for 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use the oven (covered with foil to prevent drying), the microwave, or even sauté it in a pan with a bit of butter.

To get the oven reheated chicken tasting it's best, place chicken in a baking dish, add a tablespoon or two of chicken broth, cover in foil, and heat at 350 until warmed through. Just be sure it reaches a safe internal temperature before eating. After all, nobody wants a dodgy tummy!

Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

You certainly can, making it ahead of time to save you time on the day! Make the gravy as the recipe instructs, then allow it to cool slightly before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge.

It'll thicken as it cools, so you might need to add a splash of extra chicken broth when reheating to thin it out to the right consistency. Give it a good whisk whilst reheating to ensure it stays nice and smooth.

Is this roast chicken recipe healthy? What are some things I can do to make it healthier?

Roast chicken is generally a healthy choice, as it's a good source of lean protein. However, the skin does contain a fair bit of fat, so removing it can significantly reduce the calorie content. You can also use less butter in the herb butter or substitute some of it with olive oil.

Serving it with plenty of vegetables, like roasted root vegetables or a green salad, ensures a well rounded and nutritious meal. Remember, a balanced diet is key a little bit of what you fancy does you good!