Perfect Roast Chicken with Lemon & Herb Pan Gravy

Juicy Baked Chicken Recipes: My Lemon & Herb Roast!
By Ethan NavarroUpdated:

Recipe Introduction

Fancy a proper sunday roast? seriously, who doesn’t? i'm talking about golden, crispy skin and juicy meat. baked chicken recipes don't have to be boring.

This lemon & herb roast chicken will blow your socks off. honestly, even my fussy aunt mildred loved it!

Oh My Goodness, It’s Roast Chicken!

This isn’t just any old bird, mind you. we're talking about a classic technique with a modern, flavourful twist. it's inspired by classic french bistro flavours.

This recipe brings a touch of elegance to your chicken dinner recipes .

What Makes This Chicken Special?

This recipe is inspired by the french bistro. it is a bit fancy, innit? the lemon and herbs create a flavour explosion.

It’s a simple yet impressive dish. perfect for sharing with family.

This ain't your average baked bone in chicken ! the bright lemon and fresh herbs create a flavour profile that will make your taste buds sing.

Plus, that pan gravy? forget about it! you'll be scraping every last drop from the pan. this is great with a side of roasted potatoes or steamed green beans.

It requires a little bit of care, but it's so worth it! perfect for sunday lunch. this recipe will serve around 4-6 hungry people.

Why This Recipe Is So Good

This recipe goes beyond just taste. chicken breast recipes baked can be tricky. this method ensures it stays juicy and tender.

Plus, chicken is packed with protein. that's a win-win, innit? this garlic butter chicken is just amazing for a quick weeknight meal.

It is also perfect for a special occasion. what makes this recipe special? well, it’s the crispy skin, the flavour, and the gravy!

Get Ready to Roast!

Alright, let’s get started with the ingredients. Oven baked chicken is easier than you think! The ingredients are easy to get at your local store.

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks with what you need for these baked chicken recipes . This ain’t rocket science, but using good stuff makes all the difference, yeah?

Ingredients & Equipment

Let's break down what you need to nail these baked chicken recipes . Honestly, the quality of your ingredients can make or break the whole experience.

Main Ingredients

Here's the lowdown on the players in our baked chicken recipes . No skimping, alright?

  • Whole Chicken: One 3-4 pound (1.4-1.8 kg) bird. Free range is the way to go, if you can swing it. You want that flavour, innit?
  • Kosher Salt: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) . This isn’t table salt, mind you. It's gentler.
  • Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon (5 ml) , freshly ground, obviously. Pre-ground stuff is just…sad.
  • Lemon: One big, juicy one. We want the zest and the halves.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . Good quality stuff.
  • Rosemary & Thyme: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) each, fresh. Dried just ain't the same.
  • Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. Jarred garlic? Blimey, no!
  • Onion: One small one, quartered.
  • Carrots & Celery: Two of each, roughly chopped.

Quality indicators: For the chicken , look for plumpness and good coloring. It should smell clean, not fishy or funky.

Seasoning Notes

Don't be shy with the flavors! We're not making beige chicken.

  • Herb Power: Rosemary and thyme are the stars here, but a bit of sage or oregano wouldn't hurt.
  • Lemon Zest Magic: That zest adds a bright zing that cuts through the richness.
  • Garlic Boost: Garlic makes everything better, doesn't it? Honestly I had some pretty interesting garlic butter chicken using different types of butter and garlic.
  • Substitution Alert: No fresh herbs? A teaspoon of dried mixed herbs will do in a pinch.

I've got a confession. once, i ran out of fresh rosemary for my chicken breast recipes baked . used a bit of dried rosemary and some lemon pepper.

The results? not bad at all! sometimes you just have to roll with it.

Equipment Needed

Keep it simple, stupid.

  • Roasting Pan with Rack: Essential for letting the air circulate. If you want to try oven baked chicken breasts , or even oven baked chicken , this tool is almost mandatory.
  • Meat Thermometer: Absolutely crucial. Aim for 165° F ( 74° C) in the thickest part of the thigh. I've tried countless chicken breast recipes , trust me: thermometers are essential..
  • Basting Spoon: Helps keep that chicken moist.
  • Small Saucepan: For whipping up that amazing gravy. This is optional though if you are going for the chicken dinner recipes .

Household Alternatives: If you don't have a roasting rack, use some chopped veggies as a base. Works a treat.

Master the Art of Baked Chicken Recipes : The Ultimate Guide

Honestly, who doesn't love a good baked chicken recipe ? it's a classic, comforting, and surprisingly versatile dish. we are gonna use baked chicken breast , but this recipes works wonders with the whole bird as well.

Today, we're diving deep into creating a truly perfect roast chicken, one that will impress even your harshest food critic (yes, i'm talking about your uncle barry).

Forget dry, bland chicken we're aiming for juicy, flavourful, and utterly irresistible.

Prep Like a Pro: The Mise en Place Magic

Essential prep is key, mate. get your essential mise en place sorted! it makes everything smoother. first, gather your ingredients.

Then, chop those veggies. season your bird well. this is called mise en place, by the way. it's french for "everything in its place".

Pretty fancy, eh? remember to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw chicken, yeah? safety first!

step-by-step to Chicken Perfection

Ready to get your hands dirty? Let's do this!

  1. Pat your 1.4 - 1.8 kg (3-4 pound) chicken dry. Seriously, really dry. Dry skin = crispy skin .
  2. Mix 1 tbsp (15 ml) kosher salt, 1 tsp (5 ml) pepper, zest of 1 lemon, 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil, 2 tbsp (30 ml) rosemary, 2 tbsp (30 ml) thyme and 4 minced garlic cloves in a bowl. This is your flavor bomb.
  3. Rub that mixture all over the chicken. Don't be shy! Get under the skin of the breast.
  4. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, quartered onion, roughly chopped 2 carrots and celery stalks.
  5. Roast at 220° C ( 425° F) for 15 mins , then 190° C ( 375° F) for 45- 60 mins . Baste every 20 mins.
  6. Check the temperature with a meat thermometer. You're aiming for 74° C ( 165° F) in the thigh.
  7. Let it rest for 15 mins before carving. Important!

Pro Tips for a Next Level Baked Chicken

Want to take your oven baked chicken to the next level? I got you, love.

  • Don't overcrowd the roasting pan! Air circulation is your friend.
  • If you're feeling fancy, add a splash of dry white wine to the pan drippings for the gravy. Makes it chef's kiss good.
  • Worried about the chicken drying out? Tent it with foil during the last 15 minutes of cooking. You're welcome.

So there you have it, a baked chicken recipe that's sure to impress. try the garlic butter chicken version if you're feeling extra indulgent or stick to the herby goodness above.

Honestly, after you mastered these chicken dishes recipes , there are plenty chicken dinner recipes you can explore. from easy chicken breast meals to elegant chicken breast recipes baked , the possibilities are endless.

Recipe Notes for Your Perfect Baked Chicken

Right, so you're about to tackle some baked chicken recipes ! awesome! before you grab your roasting pan, let's run through a few extra bits to guarantee a cracking roastie.

These are just my notes from times i have followed some chicken dishes recipes or chicken dinner recipes

Serving Suggestions: Make It a Showstopper

Presentation is key, innit? once that oven baked chicken comes out, think about how to make it look extra special.

For plating, i reckon a bed of roasted root vegetables looks amazing. or, carve the baked chicken breast and arrange it artfully on a platter.

Complementary sides? roasted potatoes are a must, especially if you toss them with rosemary and garlic. steamed green beans or even some corn dogs for the kids works wonders.

As for beverages, a crisp sauvignon blanc pairs brilliantly or even a fizzy elderflower cordial works for the kids.

Storage Savvy: Keep the Good Times Rolling

Got leftovers? lucky you! store any leftover oven baked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the fridge. it will be good for about 3-4 days.

If you're planning on freezing some, let it cool completely first. wrap it well in freezer proof bags and it can last for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating is a doddle just pop it in the oven at 350° f ( 175° c) until it's warmed through, or use the microwave if you are in a rush.

Variations: A Little Something Different

Fancy a twist? for a dietary adaptation, try a lemon garlic chicken . ditch the herb rub and just rub that bird with minced garlic, lemon zest and olive oil.

Simple! want to go seasonal? in the autumn, swap the rosemary and thyme for sage and maple syrup for a lovely warm flavour.

It is also a great fit for a breast recipe

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Let's break down the simplified nutrition information . each serving contains roughly 450 calories, 50g of protein, 25g of fat, and 5g of carbohydrates.

Oven baked chicken is packed with protein which is fab for muscle building and keeping you feeling full. it's also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

But remember, this is just a rough guide! it will be amazing if you follow some garlic butter chicken guidelines as well!.

So, there you have it all my extra tips and tricks for the perfect roast baked bone in chicken .

Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun. you will get so good with time following easy chicken breast tips! honestly, chicken breast recipes are so versatile, and you'll find what works best for you.

Get in the kitchen and make some magic happen! you can find so much inspiration for chicken breast recipes baked , so get searching!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make sure my baked chicken recipes come out juicy, not dry?

Juicy baked chicken is the holy grail! Patting the chicken completely dry before roasting is key for crispy skin, which helps lock in moisture. Basting it with pan juices during cooking also keeps it moist, and be sure not to overcook it.

A meat thermometer is your best friend aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Resting the chicken for 15 minutes after cooking is essential to let the juices redistribute, ensuring a tender result.

My chicken skin is never crispy! What am I doing wrong with my baked chicken recipes?

Achieving crispy chicken skin is all about removing moisture. As well as patting the chicken dry, try salting the chicken a few hours beforehand or even the day before and leaving it uncovered in the fridge. This helps dry out the skin.

Starting with a high oven temperature (like 425°F/220°C) for the first 15 minutes helps render the fat and crisp the skin, before lowering the temp to finish cooking. Make sure your roasting pan isn't overcrowded, so the heat circulates effectively.

Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time for these baked chicken recipes?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken a day in advance by seasoning it, applying the herb rub, and stuffing the cavity. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. Bring the chicken to room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting for more even cooking.

This also saves time on busy weeknights think of it as your culinary Blue Peter moment, getting prepared in advance!

How long does baked chicken last in the fridge, and how should I store leftovers?

Cooked chicken is best enjoyed within 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Let the chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. You can shred or slice the leftovers for easy use in salads, sandwiches, or other dishes.

Reheat thoroughly before serving; make sure it’s piping hot all the way through. Just avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent any nasty bugs from developing.

What are some variations I can try to spice up my usual baked chicken recipes?

Baking chicken is a blank canvas! Try a spicy version with smoked paprika and cayenne pepper, or a Mediterranean twist with oregano, basil, and sun-dried tomatoes. A lemon garlic version is simple and delicious. Play around with different herbs and spices to find your favourite flavour combinations.

Think of yourself as a culinary Banksy, let your creativity flow! Don't forget the sauce - a simple gravy or a squeeze of lemon can elevate the whole dish!

Is baked chicken healthy? What's the nutritional information?

Baked chicken can be a very healthy meal option, especially if you remove the skin to reduce the fat content. It's packed with protein and essential nutrients. For a 3-4 lb chicken serving 4-6 people, each serving is approximately 450 calories, 50g of protein, 25g of fat, and 5g of carbohydrates.

Using healthier fats like olive oil instead of butter can also boost the nutritional profile of your baked chicken.

Perfect Roast Chicken With Lemon Herb Pan Gravy

Juicy Baked Chicken Recipes: My Lemon & Herb Roast! Recipe Card
0.0 / 5 (0 Review)
Preparation time:50 Mins
Cooking time:75 Mins
Servings:4-6 servings

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Nutrition Facts:

Calories450
Fat25g
Fiber5g

Recipe Info:

CategoryMain Course
CuisineFrench
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