LEMON HERBS ROASTED CHICKEN

 Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 whole chicken (about 1.5–2 kg) 
• 2 lemons 
• 3–4 garlic cloves (crushed) 
• 3 tbsp olive oil 
• 1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra flavor) 
• Salt & black pepper 

 Herbs (use fresh if possible)

• 1 tbsp rosemary (chopped) 
• 1 tbsp thyme (chopped) 
• 1 tbsp parsley (chopped) 

 You can also use dried herbs (use half the amount)

 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set oven to 200°C (400°F) 

2. Prepare the Chicken

• Pat the chicken dry with paper towel (this helps it get crispy). 
• Place it in a roasting pan or baking dish. 

3. Make the Lemon Herb Mix

• In a bowl, mix: 
• Olive oil 
• Garlic 
• Chopped herbs 
• Juice of 1 lemon 
• Salt & pepper 

4. Season the Chicken

• Rub the mixture all over the chicken (top, sides, and underneath if possible). 
• Cut the second lemon in half and place it inside the chicken cavity. 
• Optional: add a knob of butter on top of the chicken. 

5. Roast

• Roast in the oven for about 1 hour 15 minutes
  (or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C / 165°F) 

 Tips (spoon juices over the chicken) once or twice during cooking for extra flavor.

6. Rest Before Serving

• Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before cutting. 
• This keeps it juicy. 

Serving Ideas

• Roast potatoes 
• Grilled vegetables 
• Simple green salad

Chef Tips

• For extra crispy skin: turn the oven to 220°C (430°F) for the last 10 minutes 
• For more flavor: add onions and carrots in the pan while roasting 
• Don’t skip resting—it makes a big difference!