roast chicken and rosemary recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best roast chicken and rosemary recipe

I’ve been making roast chicken and rosemary recipe for years, and it’s still a staple in our household. The dish originated in medieval Europe, where roasting meat over an open flame was a common practice.

The addition of rosemary, a fragrant herb commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine, gives the chicken a distinct flavor that’s both savory and aromatic. I love how the chicken turns out tender and juicy, with a crispy skin that’s perfect for snacking on.

My kids adore this recipe, and it’s often requested for family gatherings and special occasions. One of the reasons I love this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make.

Simply season the chicken with salt, pepper, and rosemary, then roast it in the oven until it’s golden brown. It’s a great way to get a delicious meal on the table without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Plus, the aroma of roasting chicken fills our home with a warm and inviting scent that makes everyone feel cozy and content. I also appreciate that this recipe is relatively healthy, as it’s made with lean protein, herbs, and minimal added ingredients.

The rosemary adds antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to the dish, making it a great option for those looking for a healthier meal option.

Roast Chicken and Rosemary

4.6 from 1388 votes

A classic roast chicken recipe infused with the aromatic flavors of rosemary. This dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hr 15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter, softened
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 lemon, halved

For the Roasting

1 onion, quartered
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 head garlic, cut horizontally

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2Remove the giblets from the chicken and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
3This helps to achieve a crispy skin.
4In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, softened butter, chopped rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
5Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it gets under the skin as well.
6Place the lemon halves inside the chicken cavity.
7This will infuse the chicken with a citrus flavor.
8Place the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in the roasting pan.
9Place the chicken on top of the vegetables.
10This will help to keep the chicken elevated and allow for even cooking.
11Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
12Then, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
13Continue roasting for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh.
14If the skin starts to brown too quickly, cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil.
15Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to crisp up.
16The skin should be golden brown and crispy when done.
17Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
18This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken.
19Carve the chicken and serve it with the roasted vegetables and any pan juices.

🔧Equipment

Roasting pan
Basting brush
Meat thermometer
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 6g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 40g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add other herbs like thyme or sage for additional flavor. For a juicier chicken, baste it every 20 minutes during roasting.

This roast chicken and rosemary recipe is always a good idea for any occasion.

It works well for family gatherings or as an everyday meal option because it’s so simple to make yet packed with flavor.

One of my favorite ways to serve this dish is sliced thinly on a bed of greens or as part of a salad bar spread.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Roast Chicken and Rosemary

Q: What is the origin of roast chicken and rosemary recipe?

The dish has its roots in medieval Europe, where roasting meat over an open flame was a common practice.

Q: Can I use other herbs instead of rosemary?

While you can experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano, rosemary is a classic pairing for roast chicken due to its distinct flavor profile.

Q: How do I ensure my chicken is cooked evenly?

To ensure even cooking, make sure to rotate your chicken halfway through the cooking time.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can season the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it.

Q: What are some tips for achieving crispy skin?

Avoid covering the chicken while it’s cooking to allow for even browning.

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