Garlic Herb Roasted Chicken
This classic Mediterranean-style roasted chicken is all about crispy golden skin, juicy meat, and bold garlic-herb flavor. Olive oil, fresh herbs, and garlic infuse the chicken as it roasts, while lemon adds brightness. It’s simple, rustic, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
🕒 Quick Info
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
Main:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 lbs)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Inside the Chicken:
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4 garlic cloves (crushed)
- A few sprigs of rosemary or thyme
Optional Vegetables (for roasting):
- Potatoes, carrots, onions
👨🍳 Instructions
- Preheat Oven
- Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels (this helps crisp the skin).
- Make the Garlic Herb Mix
- Combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Season the Chicken
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, crushed garlic, and herbs.
- Roast
- Place chicken in a roasting pan (breast side up).
- Add vegetables around it if using.
- Roast for about 1 hour 15 minutes, or until internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest & Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.
- Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
🌿 Tips
- Baste the chicken halfway through cooking for extra juiciness.
- For extra crispy skin, finish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes.
- Letting the chicken come to room temp before roasting helps even cooking.
❓ Q&A
Q: How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer—165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Q: Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
A: Yes! Reduce cooking time to about 35–45 minutes depending on size.
Q: Can I marinate it overnight?
A: Yes, and it will taste even better. Just keep it refrigerated and bring to room temp before cooking.
Q: What herbs work best?
A: Rosemary, thyme, oregano, and parsley are classic Mediterranean choices.
