Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken

There’s something magical about a perfectly roasted chicken, and when it comes to creating that culinary wonder, Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken is my go-to. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a chilly Sunday afternoon, and the aroma of garlic and herbs filled my kitchen as I prepared for a cozy family dinner. The anticipation of serving a golden, crispy chicken, glistening with buttery goodness, was almost too much to bear! Every bite brought a symphony of flavors that made everyone at the table sigh with happiness. This dish isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate, perfect for creating cherished memories with loved ones.

What You Need for Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken

The beauty of Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The star of the show, the whole chicken, becomes a succulent centerpiece when combined with aromatic herbs and rich butter. These ingredients not only enhance the taste but also celebrate the essence of home-cooked meals.

• 4 to 5 pound whole chicken – Make sure it’s at room temperature for even cooking.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and moisture.
• 4 tablespoons olive oil – Helps crisp the skin to golden perfection.
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced – Brightens the flavors beautifully.
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature – For herb mixture.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped – Adds freshness and color.
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped – A fragrant herb that pairs well with chicken.
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped – Complements the other herbs wonderfully.
• 1 tablespoon paprika (optional) – For added color when roasting.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the chicken with robust flavor.
• 1 head garlic, roughly peeled and cut in half – For stuffing the chicken.
• 6 sprigs fresh rosemary, tied together – Enhances the aroma while cooking.
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme – Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 lemon, quartered – For stuffing and flavoring.

Step by Step Instructions for Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken

Roasting a chicken might seem intimidating, but with the Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken, I’ll guide you every step of the way. It’s a straightforward process that yields delicious results. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a stunning centerpiece for your dinner table.

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This high temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy skin on the chicken.

2. Lightly grease a roasting pan with olive oil and set it aside. This helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.

3. Clean the chicken thoroughly. Rinse it under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving that golden skin.

4. Remove any leftover fat and feathers from the cavity. It might sound tedious, but it makes a difference in the final dish.

5. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, melted butter, and the juice of the lemon. Stir well to combine.

6. Place the chicken on a cutting board or into the prepared pan. Pour the butter mixture over the top, ensuring you get it under the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor.

7. Generously season the chicken with salt and pepper both inside and outside. Don’t be shy—this is where a lot of the flavor comes from!

8. Now, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top of the chicken for a burst of freshness.

9. In a medium bowl, combine four tablespoons of butter with the chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and garlic. Add the optional paprika for color.

10. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin as well. This adds an incredible depth of flavor.

11. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the halved garlic head, tied rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, and quartered lemon. This infusion of flavors while cooking is key.

12. Tie the legs of the chicken together with kitchen string. This helps the bird cook evenly.

13. Place the chicken breast-side up in the prepared roasting pan. Roast for 1 hour and 15 to 25 minutes. Baste halfway through to keep it juicy.

14. The chicken is done when its juices run clear when pierced with a skewer. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach 165 degrees F.

15. When the chicken is done roasting, baste it again. Then, turn on the broiler and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the skin is golden and crispy.

16. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.

17. Use the pan juices to drizzle over the chicken for added flavor when serving.

18. Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish.

Substitutions and Tips

While the Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken is delicious as is, here are some tips and alternatives to customize your dish. Feel free to experiment!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as it sits!
• Freezing: You can freeze leftover chicken in portions for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped!
• Pairing: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to complement the chicken.
• Sides: Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
• Spices: Experiment with different herbs like sage or dill to create your signature flavor.
• Marinade Time: For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the herb butter mixture for a few hours before roasting.
• Cooking Method: This recipe can also be adapted for a slow cooker if you prefer a hands-off approach.

Great Combinations for Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken

Serving your Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken creates a delightful experience for your family or guests. Here are some combinations that elevate your meal:

• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with a medley of roasted seasonal vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts.
• Side Salads: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Grain Bowls: Serve over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
• Holiday Gatherings: This dish makes a stunning centerpiece for holiday dinners or special occasions.
• Picnic Treat: Leftover chicken is perfect for sandwiches at picnics or potlucks.
• Comfort Food: Always a hit for cozy family dinners, bringing everyone to the table.
• Seasonal Pairings: In spring, pair with light asparagus; in fall, consider hearty squash.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, the Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken is a dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors, making it a favorite for any occasion. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; your loved ones will be delighted, and you might just find it becoming a cherished tradition in your own kitchen!

Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delightful Garlic Herb Butter Roasted Chicken. Juicy, tender, and infused with rich herbs and buttery goodness, it's the perfect dish for any meal. Treat yourself to an easy weeknight dinner that will impress your family and guests alike!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 410

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 to 5 pound whole chicken room temperature with giblets and neck removed from the cavity
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon lemon zested first and juiced
• to taste salt and freshly ground pepper
• 4 tablespoons butter room temperature
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped
• 1 tablespoon paprika optional – for a darker color when roasting
• 6 cloves garlic minced
• 1 head garlic roughly peeled and cut in half horizontally through the middle
• 6 sprigs fresh rosemary tied together
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 lemon lemon quartered

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Peeler
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This high temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy skin on the chicken.
2. Lightly grease a roasting pan with olive oil and set it aside. This helps prevent sticking and adds flavor.
3. Clean the chicken thoroughly. Rinse it under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to achieving that golden skin.
4. Remove any leftover fat and feathers from the cavity. It might sound tedious, but it makes a difference in the final dish.
5. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, melted butter, and the juice of the lemon. Stir well to combine.
6. Place the chicken on a cutting board or into the prepared pan. Pour the butter mixture over the top, ensuring you get it under the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor.
7. Generously season the chicken with salt and pepper both inside and outside. Don’t be shy—this is where a lot of the flavor comes from!
8. Now, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top of the chicken for a burst of freshness.
9. In a medium bowl, combine four tablespoons of butter with the chopped rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and garlic. Add the optional paprika for color.
10. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin as well. This adds an incredible depth of flavor.
11. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the halved garlic head, tied rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, and quartered lemon. This infusion of flavors while cooking is key.
12. Tie the legs of the chicken together with kitchen string. This helps the bird cook evenly.
13. Place the chicken breast-side up in the prepared roasting pan. Roast for 1 hour and 15 to 25 minutes. Baste halfway through to keep it juicy.
14. The chicken is done when its juices run clear when pierced with a skewer. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach 165 degrees F.
15. When the chicken is done roasting, baste it again. Then, turn on the broiler and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the skin is golden and crispy.
16. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
17. Use the pan juices to drizzle over the chicken for added flavor when serving.
18. Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish.

Notes

Extra tips or suggestions here.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.