Poulet aux herbes et au citron avec pommes de terre

#### **Instructions**:

1. **Prepare the Chicken**:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure that the skin crisps up during roasting.
– Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out. This is essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the chicken.
– Zest one lemon and set the zest aside. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice over the chicken, making sure to coat it well.
– If you like, mix the lemon juice with some Dijon mustard for an extra layer of flavor.
– Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon halves and a few sprigs of fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, and parsley). This will infuse the chicken with wonderful aromatic flavors as it roasts.
– Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and massage it into the skin for extra crispiness.

2. **Prepare the Potatoes**:
– Cut the potatoes into halves or quarters, depending on their size. Make sure they are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
– Toss the potatoes in a bowl with a little olive oil, salt, pepper, and any remaining fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme). Add in the garlic cloves if you prefer a hint of garlic flavor.
– Arrange the potatoes around the chicken on the roasting pan. The potatoes will roast in the flavorful juices from the chicken.

3. **Roast the Chicken**:
– Place the prepared chicken in the oven and roast for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
– Halfway through the cooking time, check the potatoes and toss them to ensure they are evenly roasted.
– If you prefer a more golden and crispy skin, baste the chicken with the pan juices once or twice during cooking.

4. **Serve**:
– Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a moist, tender chicken.
– Carve the chicken and serve with the roasted potatoes, garnished with fresh herbs and extra lemon wedges for a burst of citrus.

### Pairing Suggestions

To complement **Poulet aux Herbes et au Citron avec Pommes de Terre**, consider serving it with a side of sautéed green beans, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or a glass of crisp white wine such as **Chardonnay** or **Sauvignon Blanc**. The bright acidity of the wine pairs perfectly with the richness of the chicken and the freshness of the lemon.

### Conclusion: A Classic Dish That Never Goes Out of Style

**Poulet aux Herbes et au Citron avec Pommes de Terre** is a dish that effortlessly combines simplicity with sophistication. With its fragrant herbs, zesty lemon, and tender roasted chicken, it’s no wonder this classic French dish is beloved around the world. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for the family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with minimal effort and maximum flavor. So why not bring a little bit of French charm into your kitchen today with this delightful and delicious recipe? Bon appétit!