Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken

Name: Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 lemons, juice and zest; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Classics Recipes

I absolutely love making Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The symphony of flavors that comes from fresh lemon and aromatic garlic creates a dish that's not only delicious but also uplifting. The vibrant citrus cuts through the richness of the chicken, resulting in a juicy and tender meal that everyone enjoys. Plus, the roasting method ensures a beautifully crispy skin, making it perfect for presentation. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a regular in your home too!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:29:27.897Z

Preparing this Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken has become a cherished ritual in my kitchen. I remember the first time I tried this recipe; I was amazed at how simple ingredients could transform the chicken into something extraordinary. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant garlic not only tantalizes the taste buds but fills the kitchen with a heavenly aroma.

One of my favorite tips is to let the chicken marinate in the lemon-garlic mixture for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if time allows. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a succulent and flavorful meal that impresses everyone at the table. Plus, it's easy to pair with a simple salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavor profile with fresh ingredients
Crispy skin and juicy meat combined for the perfect bite
Simple preparation that yields impressive results

The Role of Marinade

Marinating the chicken is a crucial step that allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat. The combination of lemon juice and olive oil works to tenderize the chicken while imparting a bright, zesty taste. I recommend using fresh lemons for the best flavor, as bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant acidity that fresh zest provides. Ensure the chicken is fully coated in the marinade by turning it occasionally during refrigeration for maximum flavor absorption.

While you can marinate the chicken for as little as two hours, allowing it to rest overnight in the refrigerator will yield even better results. During this time, the garlic and rosemary infuse their aromatic qualities, creating a rich undertone that balances the bright lemon. If you're pressed for time or need to prep ahead, you can also prepare the marinade in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to use it.

Perfect Roasting Techniques

When it comes to roasting the chicken, reaching the right oven temperature is key. Preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) creates the crispy, golden skin everyone loves while ensuring that the meat cooks evenly. Using a roasting pan will help collect the drippings for a potential flavorful gravy or sauce. For added moisture, consider placing a small oven-safe dish of water in the oven; this helps maintain humidity and keeps the chicken from drying out during roasting.

To check if the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh, aiming for a temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). A perfectly roasted chicken should have a beautiful, golden-brown appearance and crispy skin. If it isn’t as crispy as you’d like, an extra 5-10 minutes of roasting at 450°F (232°C) can intensify the browning without compromising the juiciness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process:

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 lemons, juice and zest
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a large resealable bag or a dish. Pour the marinade over it, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Roast the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Rest and Serve

Once roasted, let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Enjoy this flavorful chicken dish with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For extra crispiness, broil the chicken for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Additionally, you can add vegetables like carrots and potatoes to the roasting pan for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides to complete your meal. I love serving it with a fresh salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette; the acidity complements the chicken perfectly. Roasted vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, are also great choices, adding robust flavors and vibrant colors to your plate.

For a comforting touch, consider serving the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice pilaf. Don't forget to drizzle some of the pan drippings over the sides for an extra punch of flavor and moisture. You can also garnish the dish with additional lemon wedges and fresh rosemary sprigs for a colorful presentation.

Make-Ahead and Storage

If you're planning to make this dish ahead of time, the marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before roasting. This is particularly useful for busy weeknights or dinner parties. Just ensure to keep the chicken covered tightly to prevent any contamination from other foods in the fridge.

Leftover roasted chicken stores well and can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can easily reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to retain moisture, or slice it up and use it in salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes. You can also freeze the chicken for longer storage; just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts or thighs, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Absolutely! You can make the marinade up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What should I serve with this chicken?

It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.