Let’s be real: there’s nothing better than a juicy, flavorful chicken dinner that comes together easily, especially when you’re cooking at home. This Garlic Lemon Herb Chicken is exactly that — a simple, delicious recipe that’s packed with bright, fresh flavors. You’ll love the combination of zesty lemon, fragrant garlic, and a mix of herbs that bring out the best in every bite.
The best part? It’s easy enough for beginners! No fancy techniques or tricky steps, just straightforward instructions that will have you cooking like a pro in no time. Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for a reliable go-to chicken recipe, this is the one to try. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressing family and friends without any stress. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp minced rosemary
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Garlic Lemon Herb Butter
In a bowl, blend the softened butter with lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, salt, onion powder, minced rosemary, and minced garlic. This fragrant butter mixture is what gives the chicken its delicious flavor.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Carefully loosen the skin of the chicken using your fingers. Generously spread the garlic lemon herb butter under the skin and all over the surface of the chicken. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
3. Roast the Chicken
Place your prepared chicken on a baking sheet. Roast it in a preheated 400°F oven for 40-45 minutes. I like to baste the chicken every 10 minutes with the flavorful drippings — this helps keep the meat juicy and adds extra flavor.
4. Get That Perfect Crispy Skin
For an extra crispy, golden-brown finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 2 minutes of cooking. Watch it closely to prevent burning!
5. Rest and Serve
Once your chicken is cooked through (the thickest part of the thigh should read 165°F on a meat thermometer), let it rest for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken extra tender.
My Tips for the Best Garlic Lemon Herb Chicken
Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary and garlic make a big difference in the flavor of this dish. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs will work too — just use about half the amount.
Basting is Key: Regularly basting the chicken with its drippings helps lock in moisture and enhances the savory taste.
Check the Temperature: Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe and perfectly cooked chicken.
What to Serve with Garlic Lemon Herb Chicken
I love pairing this chicken with roasted vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts, or a crisp green salad. It also goes great with garlic mashed potatoes or a light pasta salad. For drinks, try a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing homemade lemonade — they complement the zesty lemon flavors beautifully.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Garlic Lemon Herb Chicken recipe is easy, quick, and bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect choice for a family dinner, meal prep, or even a special occasion. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, juicy chicken ready to serve in no time.
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