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lemon and rosemary roasted chicken recipe

Roasted Chicken Recipe with Lemon and Rosemary

Lori
A delicious Roasted Lemon and Rosemary Chicken cooked to perfection - perfect with green beans and your favorite wine!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Servings 4 to 6

Ingredients
  

  • 2 large and fresh lemons (preferably organic)
  • 4-5 large sprigs fresh rosemary , divided
  • 1 4-5 lbs. whole chicken, cut into parts (bone in, skin on) You can use just chicken thighs or chicken leg, if preferred
  • Sea salt (or kosher salt and black pepper, to taste)
  • 3-4 large garlic cloves , finely minced
  • 2 T. extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400ºF and line a large rimmed baking sheet with a piece of parchment paper or a Silpat™ baking sheet. Set aside.
  • Make thin slices of both lemons, then cut the slices from one lemon into quarters. Break two of the rosemary sprigs into small pieces. Set aside.
  • Arrange the chicken on the prepared baking sheet without overcrowding. Use a sharp knife to gently lift the skin and sprinkle the meat with salt and black pepper, as desired.
  • On the thickest part of the chicken, create a pocket under the skin with the knife and insert the quartered lemon slices, minced garlic, and the small pieces of rosemary inside.
  • Scatter the whole lemon slices and rosemary sprigs onto the baking sheet and place into the pre-heated oven.
  • Remove from the oven and brush the pan juices over the chicken with a clean pastry brush. Cover loosely with foil and rest for 5 minutes. Remove cover and brush pan juices over the chicken again.

Notes

  1. For best results, sprinkle salt and black pepper under the skin prior to stuffing with the lemon, rosemary, and garlic.