Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Whole Chicken (So Juicy!)

Discover the perfect Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Whole Chicken recipe! Learn how to achieve crispy skin and juicy meat with our step-by-step guide. Perfect for any occasion, this roast chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes.

Growing up in the glory days of BBC Food, I was always super interested in food. Glued to the TV screen daily, I experimented with recipes from different chefs. I attended food demos and classes featuring BBC chefs, with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstal becoming a personal favorite. His style and approach resonated with me back then—he was a bit of a wild child, a maverick, passionate about the provenance of food and knowing what you eat and where it comes from. Twenty-odd years on, he still holds the same resolve. This recipe is adapted from a method he uses.

Simple and classic, this slow oven-roasted chicken features juicy meat inside and crispy golden brown skin outside. The secret ingredient? Butter. The smell and juicy tenderness of this slow-roasted chicken make it the ultimate comfort food. The slow cooking process infuses rich flavors, resulting in a delicious meal that everyone will love.

A main course everyone should know how to make, this recipe pairs wonderfully with your favorite sides for a wholesome, mouthwatering meal. Whether it's a simple green salad or a more elaborate dish like Chicken with Creamy Potatoes Au Gratin, this recipe is perfect for a Sunday family dinner and is easy enough for a weeknight meal. With enough extra flavor and special touches, it’s also ideal for serving at a dinner party.

Jump to:

• Why You Will Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• How to Make Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Whole Chicken
• Chef’s Tips
• Roasted Lemon and Herb Chicken Leftovers
• Best Side Dishes to Serve with Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Chicken
• What Dessert to Serve with Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Chicken
• Best Wine Pairings for Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Chicken
• Storage Instructions
• FAQ
• More Chicken Recipes
• Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Whole Chicken (So Juicy!)

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• Easy: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike.
• Comfort Food: The combination of crispy skin and juicy meat makes this roast chicken the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners at home.
• Suitable for any occasion : Whether it's a weeknight dinner, a Sunday family meal, or a special dinner party, this versatile recipe fits seamlessly.
• Step by Step Guide: With clear instructions and tips, you'll find this recipe easy to follow, ensuring your chicken turns out perfect every time.

Ingredients

• Free Range (or Organic) Whole Chicken: Provides the best flavor and texture for a juicy chicken with crispy skin.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve golden brown skin.
• Fresh Rosemary: Infuses the chicken with fragrant, earthy flavors.
• Fresh Thyme: Adds a subtle, aromatic taste.
• Garlic: Enhances the savory profile of the dish.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor.
• Lemon: Adds brightness and a hint of acidity.
• Olive Oil: Keeps the chicken moist and aids in browning.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
• White Wine: Adds depth and complexity to the pan juices.

See the recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Whole Chicken

Easy Roast Chicken Recipe (This recipe is adapted from Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstal's Roasting Method)

Preheat Oven

• Preheat the oven to 210°C (410°F)

Make the Garlic and Herb Butter

• In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, garlic, and lemon zest. Set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

• Place onion and lemon quarters in the bottom of a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
• Place the chicken on a clean cutting board and pat dry with paper towels.
• Rub the garlic and herb butter all over the outside of the chicken.
• Generously season the chicken all over, including inside the cavity, with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
• Place the chicken on top of the lemon and onion wedges.

Oven Roast the Chicken

Phase 1 - The Sizzle 210 - 230°C (410 - 450°F)

• Place the roasting dish in the center of the preheated oven and roast on high heat for 20 minutes.

Phase 2 - The Cooking 160 - 180°C (320 - 350°F)

• Turn the oven down to 180°C (320°F).
• Remove the roasting dish from the oven, baste the chicken, and pour the white wine into the tin (not over the chicken).
• Roast the chicken for another 30-40 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken.
• Loosely cover the chicken with aluminum foil brushed with olive oil for the first 20 minutes to protect the skin. Remove the foil for the last 15-20 minutes to ensure golden brown, crispy skin.
• Test if the chicken is cooked using a meat thermometer (internal temperature should reach 74°C/165°F) or by piercing the thickest part of the thigh (juices should run clear).

Chef’s Tip:

Testing if a whole roast chicken is cooked can be done with or without a meat thermometer. Here are the methods:

• With a Meat Thermometer - Insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken's thigh, avoiding the bone. The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).

• Without a Meat Thermometer - Pierce the thickest part of the thigh with a skewer or a sharp knife. If the juices run clear (not pink or reddish), the chicken is likely cooked. Alternatively, gently wiggle the chicken's leg. If it moves easily and the joint feels loose, the chicken is done.

Phase 3 - The Rest

• Turn the oven off, open the oven door, and allow the chicken to rest breast side down for 15-20 minutes. (or if you need the oven to make your roast potatoes, pop the roasting dish on the stove, loosely cover with foil and two clean tea towels to keep it warm.)

Serve and Enjoy

• Strain the pan juices into a jug. (or use as is, the buttery, lemony onions are delicious!)
• Carve the chicken and serve on a warm platter with the pan juices and your favorite sides.

Chef’s Tips

• Meat Thermometer: For accurate results, insert the meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken's thigh, avoiding the bone. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F).
• Without a Thermometer: Pierce the thickest part of the thigh with a skewer or sharp knife. If the juices run clear and not pink or reddish, the chicken is likely cooked.
• Leg Test: Gently wiggle the chicken's leg. If it moves easily and the joint feels loose, the chicken is done.
• Resting the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest breast side down for 15-20 minutes after cooking to retain juices and ensure juicy meat.

Roasted Lemon and Herb Chicken Leftovers

Leftover chicken is perfect for creating delicious and convenient dishes throughout the week. These recipes are great ways to make the most of your roast chicken, ensuring nothing goes to waste while keeping your meals exciting and flavorful.

• Transform your leftovers into a comforting Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup by simmering the chicken with vegetables and noodles.
• For a lighter option, toss the chicken with fresh greens and your favorite dressing to create a refreshing Chicken Salad. Try our Mediterranean Chicken Salad recipe.
• If you're in the mood for something handheld, make a Chicken Wrap with some fresh veggies and a tasty sauce.
• For a more substantial meal, pair the leftover chicken with pasta to make Linguini with Chicken and Basil Pesto.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Chicken

Potato Dishes

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a classic side, try creamy mashed potatoes or our olive oil mash for a dairy-free option.
• Scalloped Potatoes: These layered potatoes with cream and cheese are a decadent addition.
• Roast Potatoes: Crispy and golden, perfect for soaking up pan juices.
• Creamy Potatoes Au Gratin: A rich and cheesy potato dish that's always a hit.
• Boiled Baby Potatoes with Herb Butter: Simple yet flavorful, these are tossed with fresh herbs and butter.
• Boulangere Potatoes: Thinly sliced potatoes baked with onions and stock for a hearty side.

Vegetable Side Dishes

• Green Beans Almondine: Fresh green beans with almonds, a light and crunchy side.
• Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection, they add a savory crunch.
• Sweet Potato & Butternut Squash Casserole: A sweet and savory blend, perfect for fall.
• Braised Fennel: Soft and aromatic, pairs wonderfully with chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables: A combination of your favorites, roasted until caramelized.
• French Peas and Butter Lettuce: A delicate and buttery side.
• Ratatouille Bake: A colorful and flavorful vegetable dish.
• Stovetop Carrots with Honey and Thyme Glaze: Sweet and fragrant, a perfect complement.

Other Starchy Sides

• Steamed Basmati Rice: Light and fluffy, a versatile side.
• Barley Pilaf: Nutty and chewy, a hearty grain option.
• Polenta: Creamy or grilled, it adds a different texture.
• French Lentils: Earthy and satisfying, great for a nutrient boost.

Salad Ideas

• French Bistro Salad: A classic mix with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Simple Green Salad: Light and refreshing, pairs well with any main.
• Winter Panzanella: A seasonal twist on the Italian bread salad.
• Arugula Salad: Peppery and fresh, with a simple lemon dressing.
• Roasted Beet Salad: Sweet and earthy beets with greens and a light dressing. Or try our Apple, beet and blue cheese salad.

What Dessert to Serve with Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Chicken

• Something Chocolaty: A great option is a rich dessert like Chocolate Ganache Cake, French Chocolate Tart, Chocolate Mousse or Chocolate Fondant.
• Or Citrusy: Brighten up your meal with French Orange Tart, Lemon Curd Tart or the classic Crepe Suzette.
• Maybe Something Fruity: For a fruity finish try Apple Tarte Tatin, French Apple Cake, Blackberry and Apple Crisp and Pavlova with whipped cream and Fruit.
• Totally Decadent: Indulge in a creamy Crème Brûlée, or Crème Caramel to end your meal on a luxurious note.

Best Wine Pairings for Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Chicken

The key is to choose a wine with bright acidity that doesn’t compete with the Roasted Lemon and Herb Chicken.

Quintessential Pairing

• Sauvignon Blanc: With its vibrant acidity and citrus notes, it enhances the lemony flavors in the chicken.

Crisp and Citrusy

• Pinot Grigio: Light and refreshing, this wine's crispness complements the herbs and lemon zest perfectly.

Traditional Take

• Chardonnay: Its buttery texture and subtle oak make it a classic match for roasted chicken.

A Bold Elegant Twist

• Pinot Noir: This light red wine offers a nice balance with its bright fruit flavors and earthy undertones.

Velvety and Smooth

• Merlot: With its soft tannins and smooth finish, Merlot pairs wonderfully with the juicy roast chicken meat.

Red and White in Harmony

• Rosé: Versatile and vibrant, Rosé's light body and fruity notes make it an excellent pairing.

Festive and Light

• Sparkling Wine: Its effervescence and high acidity refresh the palate, making it ideal for this dish.

Alternative Pairings

• Semillon: Known for its lemon and herb notes, it complements the flavors of the chicken well.
• Riesling: Its balance of sweetness and acidity provides a delightful contrast to the savory chicken.
• Viognier: With its floral and stone fruit aromas, Viognier adds a unique twist to the meal.

For a Unique Twist

• Grenache Blanc: Offering a rich body with citrus and green apple flavors, it pairs beautifully with the lemon and herb profile of the chicken.

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Cut chicken into pieces. Flash freeze on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.

FAQ

More Chicken Recipes

Slow Roasted Lemon and Herb Whole Chicken is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. With crispy skin and juicy meat, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a busy day or a special dinner party. Pair it with your favorite sides and a glass of wine, and you have a meal that's sure to impress.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious aromas filling your kitchen. Don't forget to share your experience and photos in the comments below. If you loved this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more easy, step-by-step recipes, and follow us on social media for daily cooking inspiration!

Happy cooking!

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The nutrition is an estimate only. It was calculated using Nutrifox, an online nutrition calculator.