Name: Irresistible Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken; ½ cup butter, softened; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, halved; 2 tbsp fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley), chopped; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tbsp olive oil; ½ cup chicken broth; Optional: 2 carrots, 2 potatoes, 1 onion, chopped

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This garlic butter roasted chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, golden skin and tender, juicy meat. The rich, savory flavors of garlic and butter infuse every bite, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or just craving a comforting home-cooked meal, this recipe delivers both flavor and elegance with minimal effort. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy with your loved ones.

Ingredients

whole chicken
butter
garlic
lemon
fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)
salt
black pepper
paprika
olive oil
chicken broth
vegetables (optional: carrots, potatoes, onions)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken – Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin. Remove any giblets from the cavity.
Make the Garlic Butter – In a bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Season the Chicken – Gently loosen the skin of the chicken and rub half of the garlic butter mixture under the skin. Rub the remaining mixture over the exterior of the chicken.
Stuff the Cavity – Insert halved lemons, whole garlic cloves, and additional fresh herbs into the chicken’s cavity for extra flavor.
Truss the Chicken – Tie the legs together with kitchen twine to help the chicken cook evenly and retain moisture.
Prepare the Roasting Pan – Place a wire rack in a roasting pan. Optionally, scatter chopped vegetables around the pan to roast along with the chicken.
Roast the Chicken – Position the chicken breast-side up on the rack. Drizzle with olive oil and pour some chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
Baste for Extra Flavor – Roast for about 45 minutes, then baste with the pan juices. Continue roasting for another 20-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
Rest and Serve – Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve with roasted vegetables and your favorite side dishes.

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for a touch of heat.
Citrus Twist – Swap lemon for orange or lime for a slightly different citrusy flavor.
Herb-Infused – Experiment with different herbs like sage or basil to change up the flavor profile.
Dairy-Free Option – Replace butter with olive oil or ghee for a lactose-free alternative.
Slow Roasted – Cook at a lower temperature (300°F) for a longer time to achieve an ultra-tender texture.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing – Shred or slice the chicken and freeze in sealed bags for up to 3 months.
Reheating – Warm in an oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out.

FAQs

How do I ensure a crispy skin?

Pat the chicken dry before roasting and avoid covering it while cooking. Brushing with olive oil also helps achieve crispiness.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?

Yes! Adjust the cooking time to about 30-40 minutes depending on thickness.

What can I serve with roasted chicken?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad pair wonderfully.

How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the thigh. It should read 165°F.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can season and marinate the chicken a day in advance, keeping it refrigerated.

What’s the best way to carve a whole chicken?

Start by removing the legs, followed by the wings, and then slice the breast meat.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but it won’t have crispy skin. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Should I cover the chicken while roasting?

No, leaving it uncovered ensures crispy skin. If it browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil.

What herbs work best with roasted chicken?

Rosemary, thyme, and parsley are classic choices, but sage and oregano also work well.

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but adjust the added salt to avoid over-seasoning.

Conclusion

This garlic butter roasted chicken is an easy, flavorful, and foolproof dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With crispy golden skin, juicy meat, and a mouthwatering garlic butter infusion, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad, this recipe delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that will impress family and friends!

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