Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken

Name: Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, quartered; 2 cups baby potatoes, halved; 2 cups carrots, chopped; 1 onion, quartered; Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Food

I absolutely love making Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken as it fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that brings everyone together. The combination of fresh herbs and juicy chicken creates the perfect family meal that I look forward to every week. I’ve experimented with different herbs, and I find that rosemary and thyme work wonders, elevating the flavors beautifully. It’s a simple yet flavorsome recipe that showcases how quality ingredients can make a complex dish effortlessly enjoyable. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen!

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-01-12T04:45:34.833Z

When I first tried roasting a chicken, I was amazed at how a few simple steps could yield such a delicious result. The key is to ensure the chicken is dry before seasoning, which allows for that perfect crispy skin. I like to toss in some vegetables around the chicken to soak up all the flavors, making it a one-pan meal that's both convenient and satisfying.

After many iterations, I discovered that letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after roasting makes a world of difference. This allows the juices to distribute evenly throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy. It’s those little tips that can transform a good dish into a spectacular one!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Aromatic herbs that lift the flavor of the chicken beautifully
Juicy, tender meat with a perfectly crispy skin
A family-friendly dish that creates warm memories around the table

Choosing the Right Chicken

When selecting a whole chicken for this recipe, look for one that is organic and free-range if possible. The quality of the chicken significantly affects the outcome, providing you with juicy meat and a more robust flavor. A chicken weighing between 4 to 5 pounds is ideal, as it ensures even cooking and a crispier skin. You can ask your butcher for recommendations if you're unsure what to choose.

Make sure the chicken is fresh, visually appealing, with no discoloration or an off odor. If you're planning to make this dish for guests, consider brining the chicken in a saltwater solution beforehand. This can enhance its juiciness and flavor. Just remember to rinse it well before applying the herb rub to remove any excess salt.

Perfecting Your Roast

Roasting at the correct temperature is key to achieving perfectly crispy skin while keeping the meat tender. Setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) allows for that golden brown exterior, while the inside remains juicy. If you have an oven thermometer, it's worth checking to ensure your oven is calibrated accurately, as overheating can lead to a burnt exterior before the inside cooks through.

If you're concerned about the chicken browning too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the first half of the cooking time. This allows the chicken to cook through and then promotes browning in the second half. Basting halfway through with pan juices not only adds flavor but also helps maintain moisture, resulting in a more succulent meat.

Vegetable Variations and Tips

The vegetables used in this roast are not just a side dish; they absorb all those delicious flavors from the chicken. You can easily customize this mix based on what's in season or what you have at hand. For instance, parsnips or turnips work beautifully alongside potatoes and carrots, adding their unique sweetness. Just keep the sizes consistent for even cooking.

If you're short on time, pre-cut the vegetables and store them in the fridge the night before. Just ensure to coat them in olive oil, salt, and pepper just before roasting. This will help retain their flavor and texture. Also, you might want to adjust cooking times slightly if you add root vegetables that require longer cooking, ensuring everything reaches that perfect tenderness together.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, quartered

For Roasting

2 cups baby potatoes, halved
2 cups carrots, chopped
1 onion, quartered
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Instructions for Roasting

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin for added flavor. Stuff the cavity with lemon quarters.

Arrange Vegetables

In a large roasting pan, arrange the baby potatoes, carrots, and onion. Drizzle them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, mixing to coat. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables.

Roast the Chicken

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 60 to 75 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through cooking.

Rest and Serve

Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve the chicken with the roasted vegetables and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight in the herb mixture. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables around the chicken to roast together and soak up all the delicious juices!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover chicken can be a fantastic ingredient for various meals. Once you carve the chicken, refrigerate it in an airtight container, and it should last for up to three days. To maximize freshness, store the meat separate from the vegetables, as they can release moisture, making the chicken soggy over time.

When reheating, place the chicken back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering it with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, shredding the leftover chicken and adding it to soups or salads can breathe new life into your leftovers, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

Serving Suggestions

This Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread, ideal for soaking up those flavorful juices. Consider serving it alongside a tangy slaw or a light vinaigrette-dressed salad to contrast the richness of the chicken and roasted vegetables.

If you want to elevate your meal, serve the chicken with a homemade gravy made from the pan drippings. Simply whisk in a tablespoon of flour and some chicken broth over medium heat, scraping the bottom to capture all those delicious bits. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes the dish even more comforting.

Celebrating Variations

While this recipe shines with rosemary and thyme, feel free to experiment with other herbs like sage or even dill for a fresh twist. If you're feeling adventurous, a tablespoon of Dijon mustard mixed with the herb rub can add a delightful zing to the chicken, enhancing the depth of flavor.

For a Mediterranean flair, consider replacing the rosemary and thyme with oregano and basil, and adding olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the roasting pan. Such variations not only keep the dish exciting but also allow you to tailor the recipe to suit your guests' preferences or seasonal ingredients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs, but the flavor may be less vibrant. Use about a third of the amount of dried herbs as a substitute for fresh.

→ What should I do if I don't have a roasting pan?

You can use a large oven-safe skillet or a baking dish. Just make sure it’s large enough to hold the chicken and vegetables.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispiness.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

While it’s best fresh, you can marinate the chicken a day ahead. Roast it the day you plan to serve for best results.