Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
  • 1 whole lemon, halved
  • 1 head garlic, cut in half crosswise
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika to create a herb paste.
  3. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a large roasting pan.
  4. Rub the herb paste all over the chicken, making sure to coat the inside of the cavity as well.
  5. Squeeze the juice from the halved lemon into the cavity, and then place the lemon halves and garlic halves inside the chicken.
  6. Pour the chicken broth into the roasting pan around the chicken. This will help keep the chicken moist while roasting.
  7. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear when pierced.
  8. Halfway through roasting, baste the chicken with the pan juices to keep it moist and flavorful.
  9. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

💡 Chef's Notes

Serve the chicken on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs and surrounded by roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Recipe by Elena - Recipe Creator & Food Blogger