Easy Herb Roasted Chicken

This Easy Herb Roasted Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers perfectly crispy skin and tender, juicy meat every time. The combination of dried rosemary, thyme, and sage creates a fragrant, aromatic seasoning that pairs beautifully with the bright zest of lemon. Roasting the chicken with garlic and onion powder adds a deep, savory layer to the dish, while stuffing the cavity with fresh lemon and onions enhances the flavor from the inside out. Whether you're roasting it alongside vegetables like carrots and potatoes or serving it with your favorite sides, this herb-roasted chicken makes for an impressive, hearty meal that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It's a classic comfort food that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious!

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Roasting Chicken Made Simple: My Family’s Favorite Herb Roasted Recipe

I used to be so intimidated by the idea of roasting a whole chicken. The thought of it seemed like some grand culinary task I wasn’t ready for. But once I had kids, I wanted them to grow up with the kind of comforting, homemade meals that made them feel like their mom could make the best roasted chicken in the world (at least in their eyes!). And guess what? Roasting a chicken isn’t rocket science - it’s actually really simple, and there are so many ways to make it special. This Easy Herb Roasted Chicken has become one of our absolute favorites.

The combination of herbs, garlic, and lemon gives it such a delicious, savory flavor, and the skin turns out perfectly crispy every time. It's a dish that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing and feels like a real family feast, but it’s surprisingly easy to pull off. If you're looking for more chicken recipes, you should definitely try my Chicken Paprikash (my son's absolute favorite), One-Pan Chicken and Rice Casserole, or Easy Chicken Tikka Masala - each one is a winner in our house!

This Herb Roasted Chicken is proof that even the most intimidating dishes can become your go-to family favorites.

Best,

Ana

Ingredients for Easy Herb Roasted Chicken

Whole chicken: The star of the dish, providing tender, juicy meat and crisp, golden skin when roasted.
Olive oil: Helps the herbs and seasonings adhere to the chicken while adding moisture and aiding in crisping the skin.
Dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant, earthy aroma with a slightly pine-like flavor, perfect for roasted meats.
Dried thyme: A warm, herbal note that enhances the savory taste of the chicken.
Dried sage: Contributes a subtle, peppery flavor that pairs beautifully with roasted poultry.
Garlic powder: Infuses the chicken with deep, savory garlic flavor throughout.
Onion powder: Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor to complement the other spices.
Lemon zest: Brings brightness and a burst of citrusy flavor to balance the savory herbs.
Salt and pepper: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and seasons the chicken perfectly.
Lemon: Stuffed inside the chicken for added moisture and a fresh, tangy flavor.
Onion: Adds flavor from the inside, helping to steam the chicken as it cooks.
Optional vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and onions are perfect roasted alongside the chicken, soaking up its juices for a complete meal.

How do I keep the chicken moist while roasting?

The key to moist, juicy chicken is not overcooking it. Using a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) helps prevent over-roasting. You can also baste the chicken with its own juices or melted butter throughout the cooking process to keep it moist.

How do I get crispy skin on a roast chicken?

To achieve crispy skin, make sure the chicken is thoroughly patted dry before seasoning. Rubbing the skin with oil or butter and roasting it at a high temperature (375°F/190°C or higher) helps crisp up the skin. For even more crispiness, you can broil the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking.

How long should I roast a chicken?

Roasting time depends on the weight of the chicken. A general rule of thumb is 20 minutes per pound at 375°F (190°C), plus an additional 15-20 minutes. However, always check the internal temperature to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Do I need to truss the chicken?

Trussing helps the chicken cook more evenly by keeping the legs close to the body. While it’s not strictly necessary, it can improve presentation and ensure the breast doesn’t dry out before the legs are cooked.

Should I cover the chicken while roasting?

You don’t need to cover the chicken, as this can prevent the skin from getting crispy. However, if the skin starts to brown too much before the chicken is fully cooked, you can loosely cover it with foil toward the end of the cooking process.

Can I roast vegetables with the chicken?

Yes! Roasting vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions alongside the chicken makes a complete meal. Simply place them in the roasting pan with the chicken so they absorb some of the delicious juices.

How long should the chicken rest after roasting?

It’s important to let the chicken rest for about 10-15 minutes after roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.

How to Make Easy Herb Roasted Chicken

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Remove the giblets from the chicken, rinse the chicken inside and out, and pat it dry with paper towels.
Mix the Herbs and Oil: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, dried rosemary, dried thyme, dried sage, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Season the Chicken: Rub the herb and oil mixture all over the outside of the chicken, as well as under the skin where possible. Season the cavity with salt and pepper.
Stuff the Chicken: Place the lemon halves and quartered onion inside the cavity of the chicken.
Prepare for Roasting: If you're adding vegetables, scatter them around the bottom of the roasting pan and place the chicken on top. Otherwise, place the chicken on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven. Roast for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.
Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Serve: Carve the chicken and serve it with the roasted vegetables, if used, and any pan juices.
Dobar tek!

What to Serve with Roasted Chicken

Recipe Variations

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: Swap the herbs for a more citrusy flavor by using fresh lemon juice, garlic cloves, and extra lemon zest. Add a few slices of lemon under the chicken skin for extra brightness.
Spicy Paprika Roasted Chicken: For a smoky, spicy kick, rub the chicken with a mixture of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and chili powder. You can balance the heat with a touch of honey or brown sugar in the seasoning mix.
Herb Butter Roasted Chicken: Instead of olive oil, use softened butter mixed with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Rub the butter mixture under the skin for extra flavor and a rich, golden finish.
Mediterranean Roasted Chicken: Add a Mediterranean twist by incorporating oregano, basil, and lemon juice into the seasoning. Serve with roasted olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta for a complete meal.

Ana

This Easy Herb Roasted Chicken recipe combines a medley of dried herbs and fresh lemon zest to create a delicious and aromatic main dish. The chicken is seasoned with rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, and onion powders, giving it a burst of savory flavors.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 1 30

Total Time 1 45

Course Chicken & Poultry, Dinner

Cuisine Global

Servings - 6

Ingredients

1 whole chicken about 2 kg
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp dried rosemary
1 tbsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried sage
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 lemon
salt to taste
black pepper to taste
1 onion quartered

Optional, for roasting:

vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the Chicken: Remove the giblets from the chicken, rinse the chicken inside and out, and pat it dry with paper towels.
Mix the Herbs and Oil: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, dried rosemary, dried thyme, dried sage, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Season the Chicken: Rub the herb and oil mixture all over the outside of the chicken, as well as under the skin where possible. Season the cavity with salt and pepper.
Stuff the Chicken: Place the lemon halves and quartered onion inside the cavity of the chicken.
Prepare for Roasting: If you're adding vegetables, scatter them around the bottom of the roasting pan and place the chicken on top. Otherwise, place the chicken on a roasting rack in a roasting pan.
Roast the Chicken: Place the chicken in the preheated oven. Roast for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.
Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Serve: Carve the chicken and serve it with the roasted vegetables, if used, and any pan juices.
Dobar tek!

Keyword easy, family meal, holiday recipe, kid-friendly

For the Curious Foodie

Did you know that roasting a whole chicken has been a go-to cooking method for centuries? In fact, the idea of cooking an entire bird dates back to ancient times when it was often the centerpiece of feasts. With our Easy Herb Roasted Chicken, you’re continuing that tasty tradition right in your own kitchen!

Fun fact: Stuffing the cavity of a chicken with lemons, onions, and herbs doesn’t just add flavor - it also helps the chicken cook evenly from the inside out. The steam from the aromatics adds moisture, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.

Ever wondered why the skin gets so crispy? That’s all about moisture management. Drying the chicken before seasoning and roasting it at a high temperature gives you that perfect crackling skin, while the herbs and spices infuse flavor deep into the meat.

And here’s a bonus: a whole roasted chicken isn’t just delicious on day one! The leftovers can easily be turned into soups, sandwiches, or even a next-day casserole, making it one of the most versatile dishes around.

Who knew that mastering a classic roast chicken could be so easy, flavorful, and fun?

Author

Ana

Welcome to my culinary haven! My name is Ana, and I'm the passionate voice behind World Cuisines Network. Here, I share recipes that have not only won the approval of my family but have also stood the test of time in our kitchen. My goal is to introduce the rich tapestry of global flavors right to your family table. Thank you for dropping in! We're thrilled to have you join us.
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