Delight your taste buds with this Herb Stuffed Roast Chicken, a succulent and flavorful dish perfect for any special occasion or Sunday dinner. Stuffed with fresh herbs and aromatics, this roast chicken is sure to impress your family and guests.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Herb Stuffing:
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 4-5 cloves garlic, smashed
- A handful of fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, parsley, and sage)
- Optional: 1 celery stalk, cut into large pieces
For the Herb Butter:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Remove the chicken from the packaging and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the cavity of the chicken with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Herb Stuffing:
- Stuff the chicken cavity with the lemon halves, onion quarters, garlic cloves, fresh herbs, and celery (if using).
Prepare the Herb Butter:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped parsley, thyme, rosemary, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Gently loosen the skin of the chicken breast by sliding your fingers under the skin, being careful not to tear it.
- Spread the herb butter evenly under the skin of the chicken breast and rub any remaining butter over the outside of the chicken.
Roast the Chicken:
- Place the chicken on a roasting rack in a roasting pan, breast side up.
- Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wing tips under the body of the chicken.
- Drizzle the chicken with olive oil or melted butter and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through the cooking time for extra flavor and moisture.
Serve:
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier chicken.
- Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite side dishes.
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Dish: Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers: Use leftover roast chicken for sandwiches, salads, or soups.
Cooking Tips:
- Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before roasting for even cooking.
- Crispy Skin: For extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) for the last 10-15 minutes of roasting.
- Flavorful Drippings: Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the pan drippings for a delicious gravy.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chicken: High in protein and essential nutrients like B vitamins and zinc.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs add antioxidants and enhance flavor without added calories.
- Lemon and Garlic: Provide a burst of flavor and health benefits such as vitamin C and immune-boosting properties.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Low-Carb: A great low-carb option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich and Flavorful: The herb stuffing and herb butter infuse the chicken with delicious flavors.
- Moist and Juicy: Proper roasting and resting ensure a moist and tender chicken.
- Versatile: Suitable for everyday meals or special occasions, and pairs well with a variety of sides.
Conclusion:
Herb Stuffed Roast Chicken is a delicious and elegant dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its aromatic herb stuffing and flavorful herb butter, this roast chicken is sure to become a favorite. Serve it with your choice of sides for a comforting and impressive dinner that everyone will enjoy. Enjoy the rich flavors and juiciness of Herb Stuffed Roast Chicken at your next meal.