Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables: A Budget-Friendly Family Dinner
Imagine a golden-brown roasted chicken, its skin infused with bright lemon and fragrant herbs, nestled amongst tender, caramelized root vegetables. This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken is a comforting and flavorful centerpiece, perfect for a satisfying family meal. The savory chicken drippings mingle with the earthy sweetness of the roasted vegetables, creating a delicious, all-in-one dish that's surprisingly simple to prepare. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on taste or quality. Roasting a whole chicken is a cost-effective way to feed a family, and root vegetables are readily available and affordable, adding both flavor and nutrition to your meal. #chicken #roastchicken #familydinner #budgetfriendly #comfortfood
Why This Recipe Works
This Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken recipe is a winner for several reasons: It’s incredibly easy, requiring minimal prep time and straightforward instructions. The combination of lemon and herbs creates a bright, flavorful profile that complements the earthy root vegetables beautifully. The result is a truly delicious and satisfying family dinner that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Plus, there are tons of options for delicious leftovers! #easyrecipe
Ingredients:
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken & Herbs | 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs) | 1 |
| 1 lemon, halved | 1 | |
| 4 sprigs fresh rosemary | 4 sprigs | |
| 4 sprigs fresh thyme | 4 sprigs | |
| 2 cloves garlic, minced | 2 cloves | |
| Marinade | Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp | |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | |
| Root Vegetables | Carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces | 1 lb |
| Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces | 1 lb | |
| Sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces | 1 lb | |
| Red onion, cut into wedges | 1 |
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the chicken inside and out and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Place the lemon halves, rosemary, and thyme inside the chicken cavity.
- In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken.
- In a large roasting pan, toss the carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and red onion with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in an even layer.
- Place the chicken on top of the vegetables.
- Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the juices run clear when a thigh is pierced with a fork.
- Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Expert Tips & Variations:
- Crispy Skin: For extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like sage, oregano, or parsley. A blend of herbs can add even more depth of flavor to your roasted chicken. #dinner
- Vegetable Variations: Add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for an even more diverse and flavorful dish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: Approximately 550-650
Protein: 40-50g
Carbohydrates: 40-50g
Fat: 25-35g
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken and root vegetables with crusty bread for dipping in those delicious pan juices, or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. This complete meal is perfect for a budget-friendly and satisfying family dinner. #easyrecipe #familydinner
This easy recipe for Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables is a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. The delicious flavors and minimal cleanup make it a true crowd-pleaser! Visit Flavour Trail Recipes for more budget-friendly and delicious meal ideas. Let us know how yours turns out in the comments below!