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Crispy Lemon Thyme Roasted Chicken

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A simple and delicious roasted chicken recipe featuring bright lemon and fresh thyme, delivering crispy skin and juicy, tender meat perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 pounds / 1.8–2.3 kg)
  • 2 lemons (1 sliced for roasting, 1 zested for seasoning)
  • 3–4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  3. Season the chicken inside and out with kosher salt and black pepper.
  4. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken’s skin.
  5. Stuff the cavity with lemon slices, garlic cloves, and sprigs of thyme.
  6. Sprinkle lemon zest and, if using, smoked paprika evenly over the skin.
  7. Optionally, truss the chicken with kitchen twine.
  8. Place the chicken breast-side up in your roasting pan or cast-iron skillet. Tuck the wing tips under the body to prevent burning.
  9. Roast in the oven for about 50-60 minutes. Halfway through, baste the chicken with its own juices to keep it moist (about 25-30 minutes in).
  10. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone; aim for 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, pierce the thigh; clear juices mean it’s done.
  11. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.
  12. Carve and garnish with freshly chopped thyme. Serve warm, spooning the flavorful pan juices over the slices.

Notes

Patting the chicken dry before seasoning is crucial for crispy skin. Resting the chicken after roasting allows juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy meat. For extra crispy skin, broil for the last 3-5 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning. Trussing helps even cooking and juicier breasts. Adjust cooking time based on chicken size and oven.

Nutrition

Keywords: roasted chicken, lemon thyme chicken, crispy chicken, easy chicken recipe, juicy roasted chicken, family dinner, gluten-free chicken

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/crispy-lemon-thyme-roasted-chicken-recipe-easy-juicy-tender-chicken/