Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken

Name: Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs); 4 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, halved

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken for its delightful aroma that fills my kitchen as it cooks. This recipe is a staple in our home, and I always look forward to the comforting flavors it brings. With a medley of fresh herbs and spices, the chicken turns out juicy and tender every time. It’s the perfect dish to share with family, making our Sundays a bit more special. Whether served for dinner or as leftovers, it never fails to impress with its simplicity and taste.

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:46:10.762Z

When I first tried roasting a chicken with herbs, I was amazed at how much flavor it added. The combination of rosemary, thyme, and garlic sautéed in olive oil creates a wonderful base that seeps into the meat, making every bite juicy and aromatic. I learned that trussing the chicken keeps it moist and helps it cook evenly, which has made a huge difference in the final result!

Another tip I've found helpful is letting the chicken rest after roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each slice is tender and flavorful. Serving it with seasonal vegetables not only complements the dish but creates a wholesome, eye-catching meal that our family adores.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Succulent chicken infused with aromatic herbs
Simple yet impressive dish for family gatherings
Perfectly crispy skin with a tender, juicy interior

      

The Importance of Fresh Herbs

Using fresh herbs in this Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken recipe truly elevates the dish. Fresh rosemary and thyme not only provide aromatic flavors but also contribute to the juiciness of the chicken. As the chicken roasts, the natural oils in these herbs infuse into the meat, creating a depth of flavor that dried herbs simply can't match. If you're unable to find fresh herbs, you can use dried ones—but remember to reduce the quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated.

The herbs’ flavors also meld beautifully with the olive oil, creating a fragrant mixture that coats the chicken. This step is crucial; be sure to rub the mixture under the skin as well to ensure every bite is packed with flavor. For a slightly different twist, consider adding a teaspoon of fresh sage or a sprinkle of dried oregano to the herb blend for an additional flavor layer.

Achieving the Perfect Roast

Roasting at a high temperature, such as 425°F (220°C), is essential for achieving that beautifully crispy skin while keeping the meat inside tender and juicy. Make sure to monitor the chicken after about 75 minutes; you want to see the skin become golden brown and crispy. If at any point the skin starts to darken too much before the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), loosely cover the chicken with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

It’s also important to let the chicken rest after roasting. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each slice is moist. Aim for a resting time of about 10-15 minutes before carving, during which you can prepare your sides or even whip up a quick gravy using the drippings from the roasting pan.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken

For the Chicken

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

Mix the olive oil and herbs together for maximum flavor.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place it in a roasting pan.

Make the Herb Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken and inside the cavity.

Add Lemon

Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the chicken and place the lemon halves inside the cavity.

Roast the Chicken

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy every flavorful bite of your roasted chicken!

Pro Tips

Make sure to use room temperature chicken for an even roast. Resting the chicken allows for better juiciness in the meat.

Serving Suggestions

This herb roasted chicken is delicious when served with classic sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. For a Mediterranean twist, pair the chicken with a quinoa salad tossed with olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese, or serve it over a bed of couscous flavored with lemon zest.

For an impressive presentation, carve the chicken at the table and serve it on a large platter garnished with additional sprigs of fresh herbs and lemon wedges for squeezing. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows guests to enjoy the bright citrus notes with each serving.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer preservation, consider freezing the chicken. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. Properly stored, it can last for up to three months.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until warmed through. For the best texture, avoid microwaving, as it can make the chicken rubbery—using the oven will maintain that desirable juiciness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried herbs. Use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

→ What sides pair well with this chicken?

Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad complement the chicken beautifully.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the roasted chicken?

Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.