Discover the best garlic butter roast chicken recipe! This juicy and flavorful whole chicken is roasted to perfection with aromatic garlic, herbs, and butter. A perfect family dinner that’s easy to make and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Roast Chicken Recipe
If you’re looking for a fail-proof way to make a whole chicken that’s juicy, golden, and packed with flavor, this garlic butter roast chicken recipe is for you! With crispy, herb-infused skin and tender, buttery meat, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Roasting a whole chicken at home is not just cost-effective but also incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday meal, this recipe will become a staple in your home.
Ingredients for the Best Garlic Butter Roast Chicken
To make this delicious roast chicken, you’ll need:
For the Chicken:
• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika (for color and smoky flavor)
For the Garlic Butter Mixture:
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
For Stuffing the Chicken:
• 1 small onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 3 garlic cloves, smashed
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Roasting the Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Remove the giblets from the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying the chicken ensures crispy skin.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. This garlic herb butter will infuse the chicken with amazing flavors.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Gently loosen the skin of the chicken with your fingers. Rub half of the garlic butter mixture under the skin, directly on the breast meat. Then, rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the chicken. Drizzle olive oil over the skin and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
Stuff the cavity with onion, lemon quarters, smashed garlic cloves, and fresh herbs. This step enhances the aroma and flavor of the chicken while roasting.
Step 5: Truss the Chicken
Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Roast the Chicken
Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast-side up. Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the chicken with its own juices every 30 minutes for extra juiciness.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Once done, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more succulent.
Tips for the Perfect Roast Chicken
✅ Use a meat thermometer: Ensures perfectly cooked, juicy chicken without guesswork.
✅ Don’t skip the resting time: This step keeps the chicken moist and tender.
✅ Basting is key: It keeps the skin golden and crispy while keeping the meat juicy.
✅ Customize the flavors: Add chili flakes for spice or honey for a hint of sweetness.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Roast Chicken
Pair this delicious roast chicken with:
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes complement the dish perfectly.
• Crispy Garlic Bread: Because you can never have too much garlic!
• Fresh Salad: A light green salad balances the richness of the chicken
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Storage & Leftover Ideas
How to Store:
Refrigerate leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
How to Reheat:
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Leftover Ideas:
• Chicken Salad: Shred the meat and mix it with Greek yogurt, mayo, and veggies.
• Chicken Soup: Add to broth with noodles and vegetables.
• Chicken Tacos: Toss with spices and enjoy in tortillas.
Final Thoughts
This garlic butter roast chicken is a must-try recipe that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress. The crispy skin, juicy meat, and rich garlic butter make it a truly irresistible meal.
Try this recipe today, and let us know in the comments how it turned out! Happy cooking!
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