1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken:
- Clean and Dry: Rinse the whole chicken inside and out under cold running water. Pat it dry thoroughly with paper towels.
- Season Inside: Season the cavity of the chicken with salt and pepper. Place the halved lemon inside the cavity along with a few sprigs of rosemary and thyme.
3. Prepare the Marinade:
- Mix Marinade: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.
4. Season the Chicken:
- Apply Marinade: Rub the marinade mixture all over the chicken, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly.
- Tuck and Tie: Tuck the wing tips under the body of the chicken and tie the legs together with kitchen twine. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Lemon Slices: Place the lemon slices in a single layer in the bottom of a large baking dish or roasting pan.
- Add Liquids: Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) into the baking dish.
6. Roast the Chicken:
- Place Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on top of the lemon slices in the baking dish.
- Roast: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist.
7. Rest and Serve:
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy and tender chicken.
- Carve and Garnish: Carve the chicken and arrange the pieces on a serving platter. Spoon some of the pan juices over the top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations:
- Vegetable Bed: Add a bed of root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions under the chicken for a complete one-pan meal.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as sage, oregano, or basil for varied flavor profiles.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the lemon garlic roasted chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors of the dish.
Enjoy the delightful combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and tender chicken in this Savory Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken recipe. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your dining table!