Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds)
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Rinse the chicken inside and out with cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.

3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, zest of one lemon, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and paprika. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.

4. Carefully loosen the skin of the chicken by sliding your fingers between the skin and the meat, being careful not to tear the skin. Spread half of the butter mixture evenly under the skin of the chicken, rubbing it onto the meat.

5. Cut the zested lemon and the remaining lemon in half. Squeeze the juice from the lemon halves all over the chicken, and then place the lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken.

6. Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil, and then rub the remaining butter mixture all over the chicken.

7. Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up. If you have a roasting rack, you can use it to elevate the chicken and allow for better airflow.

8. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.

9. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving.

10. Serve the Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

This recipe yields a juicy and flavorful roasted chicken with a delightful hint of lemon and garlic. Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences. Enjoy your meal!