Whole Roasted Chicken with Garlic and Lemon Zest:
Ingredients
1. Whole Chicken: 3-4 lbs (1.3-1.8 kg)
2. Garlic: 4-5 cloves, minced
3. Lemon Zest: 2 lemons
4. Lemon Juice: 2 tbsp
5. Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
6. Salt: 1 tsp
7. Black Pepper: 1 tsp
8. Fresh Herbs: chopped rosemary, thyme, or parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven: 425°F (220°C).
2. Prep Chicken: Rinse, pat dry with paper towels.
3. Mix Garlic and Lemon: Combine minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
4. Rub Mixture: Rub garlic-lemon mixture all over the chicken, under the skin, and inside the cavity.
5. Stuff with Herbs: Add chopped herbs to the cavity (if using).
6. Tie Legs: Use kitchen twine to tie legs together.
7. Roast: Place chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up. Roast for 45-50 minutes per pound or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Baste: Baste chicken with pan juices every 20-30 minutes.
9. Let Rest: Let chicken rest 10-15 minutes before carving.
10. Serve: Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges.
