Lemon Herb Rotisserie Chicken

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour 30 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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There's nothing quite like a homemade rotisserie chicken that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of herbs and lemon. This Lemon Herb Rotisserie Chicken recipe takes a classic favorite and elevates it with fresh, vibrant flavors. It's perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a casual family dinner or a special gathering with friends.

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Rotisserie Chicken

Chicken is the star of the show, providing a juicy, tender base for all the flavors. We use a whole chicken to maximize flavor and ensure a satisfying meal for everyone.

Olive Oil helps to crisp up the skin and lock in moisture, making the chicken deliciously juicy.

Lemons add a bright, zesty flavor that complements the savory herbs beautifully. Plus, they help tenderize the meat as it cooks.

Garlic infuses the chicken with a rich, aromatic depth that pairs perfectly with the citrus and herbs.

Rosemary and thyme are classic herbs that add earthiness and a fragrant touch to the chicken.

Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken.

Paprika adds a hint of warmth and color to the skin, making it even more appealing when served.

Tips & Tricks

  • Let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking for even heat distribution.
  • Don’t skimp on the trussing; it helps the chicken cook evenly and makes carving easier.
  • If your rotisserie has a drip pan, add some water to it. This creates steam and keeps the chicken moist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Lemon Herb Rotisserie Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a more indulgent spread, consider pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes and a crusty loaf of bread to soak up the juices. A chilled glass of white wine complements the citrus and herb flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the quantity by half since dried herbs are more concentrated.
What if I don’t have a rotisserie oven?
You can roast the chicken in a conventional oven using a roasting pan with a rack. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.

Lemon Herb Rotisserie Chicken Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your rotisserie oven to 375°F. This is crucial for achieving that perfect, crispy skin. While the oven heats up, take your whole chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the skin crisp up nicely.

Next, brush the entire surface of the chicken with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but also helps the seasoning stick. Sprinkle the chicken generously with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Make sure you cover all sides for even flavor.

Now, it's time to stuff the chicken. Fill the cavity of the chicken with lemon slices, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and thyme. These ingredients will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor as it cooks.

Once stuffed, truss the chicken tightly using kitchen twine. This ensures that everything stays in place and cooks evenly. Then, secure the chicken on the rotisserie spit, making sure it's balanced for even rotation.

Roast the chicken for approximately 90 minutes. You'll know it's done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check, especially in the thickest part of the chicken.

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to prepare with a handful of fresh ingredients.
  • Perfectly seasoned with a refreshing citrus twist.
  • The rotisserie method ensures juicy, evenly cooked chicken.
  • Aromatic herbs make the kitchen smell incredible.
  • Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 lemons (sliced)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp fresh rosemary (chopped)
2 tbsp fresh thyme (chopped)
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the rotisserie oven to 375°F.
2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
3. Brush the chicken with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Stuff the cavity with lemon slices, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
5. Truss the chicken tightly with kitchen twine.
6. Secure the chicken on the rotisserie spit.
7. Roast for approximately 90 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

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