If you’re searching for a healthy, easy, delicious, and quick recipe, this one is perfect. I love lemon herb roasted chicken with a touch of spices, but if you prefer milder flavors, you’ll enjoy this tangy and aromatic chicken recipe. Infused with the bright, zesty freshness of lemon, along with the fragrant aroma of thyme, rosemary, oregano, and the smokiness of paprika, this dish bursts with balanced flavors. It is a one-pan meal, easy to make with less effort, and the plus point is that your healthy dinner is ready to serve within an hour.
Where It All Began
Lemon herb chicken is believed to have origins in Mediterranean cuisine. Countries like Greece, Italy, and Spain have incorporated the combination of lemon, fresh herbs, and roasted chicken into their culinary traditions for centuries. The practice of roasting chicken with herbs dates back to ancient Roman times, with the addition of lemon likely enhancing the dish as citrus fruits became more readily available in the region.
Ingredients for Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
For the marinade:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
- 2 lemons (1 sliced, 1 juiced)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp salt
- black pepper 1 tbsp
- fresh thyme 1 tbsp
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- fresh oregano (or ½ tsp dried) 1 tbsp
- paprika (optional for color) 1 tbsp
For roasting:
- 1 onion, quartered
- Carrots, cut into chunks 2-3
- Celery stalks, cut into chunks 2-3
- Potatoes, cut into half 2-3
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions for Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken
Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step helps achieve crispier skin.
Make the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and herbs. Rub this mixture generously over the chicken, getting under the skin and inside the cavity.
Stuff the Chicken
Stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon slices and any remaining fresh herbs. This will enhance the flavor from the inside out.
Prepare the Roasting Pan
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place chopped onion, carrots, potatoes and celery at the bottom of a roasting pan. Position the chicken on top of the vegetables.
Roast
Roast the chicken for 1 hour and 15 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast. Baste the chicken with pan juices every 30 minutes for added flavor and moisture.

Rest and Serve
Allow the chicken to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before carving. This helps lock in the juices. Serve with the roasted vegetables and garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant touch.
Prepare this healthy and quick dish for your family and enjoy. I hope you really enjoy my blog, and your next dish will definitely be this Lemon-herb roasted chicken. You can also visit and watch my recipe on Hash Browns.