Infused with the rich flavors of extra virgin olive oil, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic, this dish promises to be a showstopper at any dinner table. With crispy golden skin and tender, juicy meat, this roasted chicken is a celebration of the versatility and depth of flavor that olive oil brings to the culinary experience. Let's dive into the recipe and prepare to tantalize our senses.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a roasting pan or a large oven-safe skillet.
- Make the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Brush the olive oil marinade all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly, both inside and out. You can also gently lift the skin and rub some of the marinade directly onto the meat.
- Tie the Legs:
- If desired, tie the legs of the chicken together with kitchen twine to help the chicken cook more evenly and maintain its shape.
- Roast the Chicken:
- Place the chicken in the preheated oven and roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Carve the roasted chicken into pieces and serve it with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion:
With its crispy golden skin, tender juicy meat, and flavorful marinade, this lemon-garlic roasted chicken is sure to become a family favorite. The rich and fruity notes of extra virgin olive oil complement the zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, creating a dish that is as delicious as it is impressive. So fire up your oven, gather your loved ones, and prepare to delight in the irresistible flavors of this Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece.