Garlic & Rosemary Roasted Chicken Recipe

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## **Instructions**

### **1. Prepare the Chicken:**
1. Preheat your oven to **425°F (220°C)**. Position a rack in the middle of the oven.
2. Pat the **chicken** dry with paper towels. This helps to get a crispy skin while roasting.
3. Place the chicken on a large roasting pan or oven-safe dish. Tuck the **wing tips** underneath the chicken to prevent them from burning.

### **2. Season the Chicken:**
1. In a small bowl, mix together the **olive oil**, **salt**, **pepper**, **minced garlic**, and **rosemary** (both the leaves and any extra sprigs you may have).
2. Rub this garlic and rosemary mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin, especially around the breast area, for maximum flavor. You can gently loosen the skin with your fingers to create a pocket for the seasoning.
3. Stuff the **quarter of lemon** inside the cavity of the chicken, along with a few sprigs of rosemary (if you have extra). This infuses the chicken with a fresh, citrusy aroma while it roasts.

### **3. Add Butter and Aromatics:**
1. Spread the softened **butter** over the top of the chicken to help crisp the skin and add richness.
2. If desired, place the **onion** quarters and extra **lemon wedges** around the chicken in the roasting pan for additional flavor.
3. Pour the **chicken broth** or water into the bottom of the roasting pan. This helps keep the chicken moist while it roasts and creates a flavorful base for the pan sauce.

### **4. Roast the Chicken:**
1. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about **1 hour 15 minutes** to **1 hour 30 minutes**, or until the internal temperature reaches **165°F (75°C)** in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the chicken with its own juices halfway through the roasting process for even crisping and flavor.
2. If the skin begins to get too dark before the chicken is fully cooked, cover it loosely with **aluminum foil** and continue roasting until done.

### **5. Rest the Chicken:**
1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about **10-15 minutes**. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender and juicy.
2. After resting, carve the chicken and serve it with the pan juices.

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## **Serving Suggestions**

This **Garlic & Rosemary Roasted Chicken** is perfect served with a variety of sides:

– **Roasted Vegetables** – Carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts are a great accompaniment.
– **Crispy Roasted Potatoes** – Perfectly seasoned potatoes with a crispy exterior and soft interior.
– **Fresh Salad** – A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the chicken.
– **Garlic Bread** – For those who love bread, a side of garlic bread is always a great choice.

You can also drizzle the pan juices over the chicken for extra flavor or make a **simple gravy** by adding a bit of flour and stirring the drippings on the stovetop.

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## **Why You’ll Love This Garlic & Rosemary Roasted Chicken**

✔ **Simple Yet Flavorful** – With just a few ingredients, this dish brings out deep flavors, thanks to the aromatic garlic and rosemary. It’s a perfect recipe for both beginners and experienced cooks.

✔ **Versatile** – This roasted chicken is versatile enough to serve with a variety of sides and can easily be customized with different herbs and spices to suit your preferences.

✔ **Perfect for Special Occasions** – Whether it’s a holiday dinner, family gathering, or Sunday roast, this garlic and rosemary chicken is sure to impress.

✔ **Crispy Skin, Juicy Meat** – The combination of butter and seasoning ensures that the chicken skin is beautifully crispy, while the inside remains tender and juicy.

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## **Storage Tips**

🧊 **To Store** – Leftover chicken can be stored in an **airtight container** in the fridge for up to **3 days**. Be sure to store the chicken and pan juices separately to maintain freshness.

🧊 **To Reheat** – Reheat the chicken in a low-temperature oven (around **300°F/150°C**) to preserve its moisture. Cover it loosely with foil to prevent it from drying out.

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## **Final Thoughts**

This **Garlic & Rosemary Roasted Chicken** is a timeless recipe that will never disappoint. The aromatic combination of garlic and rosemary infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, while the butter ensures that the skin is golden and crispy. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this roast chicken will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think! What’s your favorite herb to use for roasted chicken? 🌿🍗