Roasting a whole chicken is a timeless classic that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. This Roasted Chicken with Garlic and Herbs recipe is designed to be both simple and flavorful, with a combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and butter creating a beautifully golden and succulent roast. Whether you’re preparing a Sunday dinner or hosting a holiday feast, this dish is sure to impress with its juicy meat, crispy skin, and aromatic fragrance. With just a few key ingredients and a little bit of time, you’ll have a show-stopping meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

The key to this recipe is the brining process, which ensures that the chicken remains moist and flavorful throughout the roasting process. Infused with fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon, the chicken absorbs all of these flavors, resulting in tender meat that practically falls off the bone. The crispy skin, basted with garlic butter, adds an irresistible crunch and richness that makes this dish unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful Garlic and Herb Butter

The garlic butter mixture with fresh rosemary, thyme, and parsley gives the chicken a rich, aromatic flavor that permeates the meat.

2. Juicy and Tender Chicken

Brining the chicken beforehand helps lock in moisture, ensuring that the meat remains tender and juicy, even when roasted for longer periods.

3. Crispy, Golden Skin

The butter and herbs baste the chicken as it roasts, resulting in perfectly crispy, golden skin that is irresistible.

4. Simple Ingredients

With just a few pantry staples and fresh herbs, this recipe uses easy-to-find ingredients that bring out the best in the chicken.

5. Impressive Presentation

This roasted chicken not only tastes incredible but also looks stunning, making it the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion or family meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 recipe chicken brine (optional, but highly recommended)
5 lb whole chicken
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 sprigs fresh thyme
1 onion, peeled and quartered
1 lemon, quartered

For the Garlic Herb Butter:

6 tablespoons butter, softened
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, minced
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary leaves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley leaves, minced
Salt and pepper to taste (go easy on the salt if you’ve brined your chicken)

Variations

Spicy Roasted Chicken: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a touch of heat.
Citrus Infusion: For an extra burst of flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before roasting and stuff the cavity with the remaining lemon wedges.
Vegetable Roasting: Add root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips around the chicken to roast together for a complete meal.
Herb Variations: Experiment with other fresh herbs like sage or oregano for a slightly different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brine the Chicken (Optional)

If you decide to brine the chicken, prepare the brine according to your recipe and submerge the whole chicken in the brine for several hours or overnight. Brining helps to ensure juicy, flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter

In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, minced thyme, minced rosemary, minced parsley, and salt and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a rack in the center of the oven to allow the chicken to roast evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the brine (if using) and pat it dry with paper towels. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with fresh rosemary, thyme sprigs, onion, and lemon quarters. This will infuse the chicken with even more flavor as it roasts.

Step 5: Apply the Garlic Herb Butter

Rub the garlic herb butter all over the outside of the chicken, making sure to cover every surface. Be generous with the butter for a crispy, flavorful crust. Season with additional salt and pepper, but remember to go light on the salt if your chicken has been brined.

Step 6: Roast the Chicken

Place the prepared chicken on a roasting rack or in a roasting pan. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1.5 hours, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh. If you want extra crispy skin, you can turn the oven to broil for the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.

Step 7: Rest and Carve

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures moist meat.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Pat the Chicken Dry: Be sure to pat the chicken dry before applying the butter. This will help achieve a crispy skin during roasting.
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and thyme are key to achieving that aromatic, herbaceous flavor. Dried herbs won’t give the same result.
Monitor Cooking Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, especially near the thigh, to ensure it’s cooked properly.
Crispier Skin: For extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (232°C) for the last 15 minutes of roasting.
Save the Drippings: Don’t discard the drippings left in the roasting pan. They make a great base for gravy or can be used to drizzle over the chicken when serving.

How to Serve

This Roasted Chicken with Garlic and Herbs pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with a side of gravy made from the pan drippings to elevate the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover roasted chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store the meat separate from the bones for easier reheating.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store it in a freezer-safe bag. The chicken will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in a covered dish and heat in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?

It’s best to thaw the chicken before roasting to ensure even cooking. If you’re in a rush, you can roast it from frozen, but it will take longer to cook.

2. Do I need to brine the chicken?

Brining is optional, but it helps ensure the chicken is more flavorful and juicy. If you prefer a less salty taste, you can skip it.

3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh herbs are preferred for the best flavor, but if necessary, you can substitute dried herbs. Use half the amount called for in the recipe.

4. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when pierced at the thickest part of the thigh.

5. Can I add vegetables to roast with the chicken?

Yes! Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips can be roasted alongside the chicken for a complete meal.

6. How long does it take to roast a 5 lb chicken?

A 5 lb chicken will take approximately 1.5 hours to roast at 425°F (220°C), but check the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked through.

7. Can I stuff the chicken with other ingredients?

Yes, you can stuff the chicken with garlic, herbs, or even bread stuffing for added flavor.

8. Can I use chicken breast or thighs instead of a whole chicken?

While this recipe is designed for a whole chicken, you can use chicken parts such as breasts or thighs. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

9. Can I make this recipe without butter?

If you prefer, you can substitute the butter with olive oil, but butter provides a richer flavor and better crispy skin.

10. How do I carve a whole roasted chicken?

Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Start by removing the legs and thighs, then slice the breast meat against the grain.

Conclusion

This Roasted Chicken with Garlic and Herbs recipe is perfect for creating a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and butter ensures the chicken is juicy, flavorful, and beautifully roasted. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this recipe will quickly become a go-to for a meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.