Greek Lemon Roasted Chicken

Greek Lemon Roasted Chicken is a classic Mediterranean dish that is bursting with flavor. The combination of tangy lemon, fragrant herbs, and succulent chicken creates a mouthwatering meal that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate this delicious Greek dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (approximately 4 pounds)
• 4 lemons
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Chicken:

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken on a cutting board and season it generously with salt and pepper, both inside and out.

2. Stuffing the Chicken:

Cut two of the lemons into quarters and stuff them inside the cavity of the chicken. This will infuse the chicken with a burst of citrus flavor as it roasts. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking.

3. Preparing the Lemon Mixture:

In a small bowl, combine the juice of the remaining two lemons, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful lemon marinade.

4. Roasting the Chicken:

Place the seasoned chicken in a roasting pan and pour the lemon mixture over it, making sure to coat the chicken evenly. If desired, you can also add some lemon slices on top of the chicken for an extra touch of citrus.

5. Cooking Time:

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.

6. Resting and Serving:

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy chicken. Serve the Greek Lemon Roasted Chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted potatoes and a fresh Greek salad.

Enjoy this delicious and aromatic Greek Lemon Roasted Chicken with your family and friends. The zesty lemon flavor combined with the tender and juicy chicken will transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Greece. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to savor the flavors of the Mediterranean!