Garlicky Roasted Chicken

Garlicky Roasted Chicken

Dive into the culinary embrace of Garlicky Roasted Chicken, a dish steeped in tradition and bursting with flavor. This timeless recipe showcases the harmony of aromatic garlic, zesty lemon, and fragrant rosemary, creating a symphony of tastes that transports you to family gatherings around a rustic table. As the chicken roasts to golden perfection, the enticing aroma wafts through your home, inviting everyone to gather for a memorable meal. Crispy on the outside and tender within, this dish is not just a dinner; it’s a celebration of love, warmth, and togetherness, perfectly complemented by roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. Historically, roasting chicken has been a centerpiece for festive occasions, marking moments of joy and union.

Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

  • Whole chicken (1 (about 4-5 lbs))
  • Olive oil (1/4 cup)
  • Garlic cloves (10, minced)
  • Lemon (1, juiced and zested)
  • Fresh rosemary (3-4 sprigs)
  • Salt (1 tablespoon)
  • Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
  • Chicken broth or white wine (1 cup (optional, for moisture))

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin.
  3. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form a flavorful paste.
  4. Rub the garlic mixture generously all over the chicken, ensuring to get under the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor infusion.
  5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up. Tuck the rosemary sprigs under the wings and inside the cavity to enhance the aroma.
  6. If using, pour the chicken broth or white wine into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the chicken moist during cooking.
  7. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked at the thickest part of the thigh.
  8. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute for a moist, flavorful dish.
  9. Serve the garlicky roasted chicken with sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4-6 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 15 minutes • Cook Time: 1 hour • Calories: 450 • Fat: 25g • Carbs: 2g • Protein: 50g • Sodium: 800mg • Sugar: 0g