Prepare to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this irresistible Chicken Roasted with Basil Garlic Butter and Lemon. Imagine cutting into a perfectly golden, crispy-skinned chicken that's bursting with fragrant herbs, zesty lemon, and rich, creamy butter. This isn't just another roast chicken recipe - it's a flavor explosion that will have your family and guests begging for seconds. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises restaurant-quality results that will make you feel like a professional chef.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Remove the chicken from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Pat the chicken dry using paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Season the entire chicken generously with salt and pepper, both inside and outside the cavity.
- Carefully separate the skin from the chicken breast and thighs using your fingers, creating a pocket. Spread approximately half of the basil garlic butter underneath the skin, massaging it gently to distribute evenly.
- Rub the remaining butter mixture over the exterior of the chicken, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Carve the chicken and serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh basil leaves if desired.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Always let your chicken sit out for 30 minutes before roasting. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden skin.
- Dry Skin is Key: Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels. Moisture prevents crispy skin, so the drier the chicken, the crispier the result.
- Butter Distribution Technique: When spreading the herb butter under the skin, use a gentle massaging motion to avoid tearing the skin and to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Don't rely on guesswork. A meat thermometer is crucial to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Resting is Crucial: Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing moist, tender meat.
- Optional Flavor Boost: For extra flavor, consider stuffing the cavity with lemon wedges or fresh herb sprigs during roasting.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 663kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 50g
Fat: 48g
Saturated Fat: 22g
Cholesterol: 204mg
