Juicy, zesty, and simple, this Birthday Lemon Roast Chicken is perfect for any celebration. With bright lemon and garlic flavors, it's an impressive yet easy dish for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.
2bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts (important for the best crispy skin)
3garlic cloves, minced(or whole garlic cloves if you prefer a more subtle flavor)
2lemons(1 juiced and 1 quartered)
5sprigs of thyme, chopped(or fresh rosemary if you prefer)
1/2 cupchicken broth
2tbspolive oil
Kosher salt and black pepper(to taste)
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and the skin turns golden brown.
Prepare the Chicken: Spray a glass oven-safe dish with cooking spray. Season the chicken breasts generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
Create the Lemon Herb Sauce: In a saucepan, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon slices, minced garlic, thyme, and a bit of salt and pepper. Bring to a low boil, whisking to combine, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Pour and Bake: Pour the lemon herb sauce over the chicken breasts in the dish. Bake for 40 minutes.
Rest the Chicken: After baking, let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to absorb into the chicken, making it extra juicy.
Keyword Birthday dinner recipe, Juicy roast chicken, Lemon herb chicken, Lemon roast chicken, Special occasion chicken, Weeknight chicken dinner