Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken with Asparagus
Welcome the fresh flavors of spring with this aromatic Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken. A whole chicken, or bone-in pieces, is generously seasoned with a vibrant blend of lemon zest, rosemary, and thyme, then roasted to golden perfection. Paired with tender-crisp asparagus spears, this dish is elegant yet simple, making it ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion in March when fresh produce begins to reappear.
Equipment
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1Prepare the chicken: Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin if desired.
- 2Stuff and season: Place lemon slices, 2 sprigs of rosemary, 2 sprigs of thyme, and 2 smashed garlic cloves inside the chicken cavity. Place the chicken in a large roasting pan.
- 3Roast the chicken: Roast for 1 hour, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (without touching bone) reads 74°C (165°F). For even cooking, you can baste the chicken every 20-30 minutes with pan juices.
- 4Add asparagus: While the chicken roasts, toss the trimmed asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil, remaining 2 smashed garlic cloves, 2 sprigs of rosemary, and 2 sprigs of thyme, a pinch of salt and pepper. Around 15-20 minutes before the chicken is done, add the asparagus to the roasting pan around the chicken.
- 5Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken and asparagus from the oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken and let it rest on a cutting board, tented loosely with foil, for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve with the roasted asparagus.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts). Adjust roasting time accordingly; pieces typically cook faster, usually 35-45 minutes. Ensure internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
How do I get crispy chicken skin?
Patting the chicken very dry before seasoning is key. You can also roast at a slightly higher temperature initially (e.g., 220°C/425°F for 15-20 minutes) before reducing to 200°C (400°F) for the remainder of the cooking time. Avoid basting too frequently towards the end of cooking.
What other vegetables can I roast with the chicken?
Potatoes, carrots, or broccoli florets are great options. Add heartier vegetables earlier in the cooking process, as they take longer to cook than asparagus.
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RECIPE BY
Leckere Rezepte
We are a team of passionate cooks and food enthusiasts.