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 pounds); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 carrots, cut into chunks; 4 potatoes, cubed; 1 onion, quartered

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken for family gatherings or quiet evenings at home. This recipe has become a cherished tradition for us, bringing everyone together around the dinner table. The combination of fresh herbs and garlic not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma that makes it hard to resist. It's simple yet requires a touch of care in preparation. I believe the secret lies in letting the chicken rest in the herb mixture to absorb all those delicious flavors before it hits the oven.

Created by

Ella Townsend

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:28:24.061Z

When I first decided to make Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken, I wanted to create something that would be memorable. I chose fresh herbs from my garden, primarily rosemary and thyme, to give the dish an authentic taste. The way these herbs mingle with the chicken is nothing short of magical, and I learned that marinating the chicken overnight accentuates the flavors exponentially.

As the chicken roasts, I enjoy preparing some seasonal vegetables as a side. One tip that I find really helpful is to roast the vegetables on the same tray as the chicken; the juices from the chicken enhance the flavors of the veggies beautifully, making it a perfectly harmonious meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy chicken infused with aromatic herbs and spices.
A simple yet impressive dish perfect for any occasion.
Leftover chicken makes for fantastic sandwiches or salads.

      

The Importance of Resting the Chicken

Resting the chicken after roasting is crucial for achieving the juiciest meat possible. When you initially roast the chicken, the internal juices are brought to the surface, and allowing it to sit for 10-15 minutes redistributes those juices throughout the meat. This step ensures that every bite is tender and moist. If you skip this, you'll likely end up with a drier chicken, even if it looks perfectly cooked on the outside.

I also recommend tenting the chicken loosely with aluminum foil while it rests. This retains heat and keeps it warm without steaming the skin, which can lead to a soggier texture. The perfect resting method transforms your Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken into a succulent centerpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Selecting the Right Vegetables

The vegetables you choose to accompany your chicken can greatly impact the overall flavor of the dish. Root vegetables like carrots and potatoes are excellent choices, as they cook evenly and roast beautifully when tossed in olive oil. They will soak up the chicken’s juices, resulting in a delicious side dish that complements the main event.

Feel free to get creative with substitutions; for instance, parsnips or sweet potatoes can replace regular potatoes if you're looking for a twist. Additionally, including seasonal vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts in fall or asparagus in spring, can elevate the dish's freshness and seasonal appeal.

Making the Most of Leftovers

After feasting on your Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken, consider how to make the most of your leftovers. Shredded chicken can star in a variety of dishes, from hearty sandwiches piled high with greens to savory salads topped with your favorite dressing. Storing leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge allows it to stay fresh for up to four days, providing quick meal solutions all week long.

For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to three months. I recommend slicing or shredding it before freezing in portion-sized bags, which helps with defrosting and meal prep. When ready to use, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. This versatility in leftover usage ensures you savor the flavors of your delicious roast for days after.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken:

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
1 lemon, zested and juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
4 carrots, cut into chunks
4 potatoes, cubed
1 onion, quartered

Once you have all the ingredients, you are ready to start marinating your chicken!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your perfect Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken:

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to get the skin crispy during roasting.

Make the Marinade

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it penetrates under the skin as much as possible.

Marinate

For best results, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight if time allows. This will enhance the flavor significantly.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large roasting pan, add the carrots, potatoes, and onion. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the marinated chicken on top of the vegetables.

Roast the Chicken

Roast in preheated oven for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Baste with pan juices halfway through for added moisture.

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicy chicken.

Serve the chicken with the roasted vegetables for an unforgettable meal!

Pro Tips

A splash of white wine in the roasting pan can elevate the flavor further. Also, feel free to customize the vegetables according to seasonal availability.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Skin

Achieving that coveted crispy skin on your roasted chicken starts long before it enters the oven. Patting the chicken dry with paper towels removes excess moisture, which is key for crisping during roasting. Additionally, using a dry herb rub, such as the one in this recipe, helps create that beautiful exterior by promoting browning as it cooks. Consider using a roasting rack if you have one; it allows airflow around the chicken, enhancing the skin's crunch.

Another tip is to roast the chicken on a higher heat for the first 20 minutes before lowering the temperature. This initial burst of heat can kickstart the browning process, resulting in perfectly crispy skin. Just keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn, then lower to the recommended temperature to finish cooking.

Herb Variations for Every Palate

The combination of rosemary and thyme used in this recipe can be easily adapted to cater to your herb preferences. For a more robust flavor profile, consider adding fresh sage or oregano, both of which pair beautifully with chicken and bring their own unique aroma. If you're looking for a milder version, tarragon or parsley can provide a softer herbaceous touch.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes within the herb mix can add a spicy kick to your chicken. Being flexible with herbs not only enhances the dish but also allows you to tailor it to suit your family's tastes, making it a personalized favorite at your dinner table.

Adapting for Dietary Needs

This Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken recipe is approachable for various dietary needs. To adapt it for a lower-fat option, consider removing the skin before cooking. While it may sacrifice some traditional crispiness, marinating will still infuse the chicken with delightful flavors, keeping it juicy and satisfying. Just be sure to monitor cooking times, as skinless pieces may cook faster.

If you're looking for a gluten-free or dairy-free roasting option, don't worry; the ingredients in this recipe naturally align with such dietary restrictions. However, if you're avoiding specific herbs due to allergies, be sure to replace them with others you love, ensuring your Sunday roast remains enjoyable and safe!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It's recommended to thaw the chicken completely before marinating and roasting for even cooking.

→ What herbs can I substitute if I don’t have rosemary or thyme?

You could try using sage, basil, or Italian seasoning as a substitute.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinate it a day in advance, then roast on the day you plan to serve.