Herb Butter Roasted Chicken
Herb butter roasted chicken offers tender, flavorful meat with aromatic herbs, perfect for family dinners and special occasions. Juicy, aromatic, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F.
- Secure wings to the body of the chicken.
- In a small bowl, stir together butter, rosemary, salt, pepper, parsley, and garlic.
- Rub the chicken with the butter mixture evenly over the surface.
- Place the chicken on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Bake for 2 to 2 1/2 hours or until fork-tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, let the butter mixture sit for about 30 minutes before rubbing it on the chicken to allow the herbs to infuse. If you don't have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used, but reduce the quantity by half. For a crispy skin, consider spatchcocking the chicken to ensure even cooking. This method works well with many chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Herb Butter Roasted Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A creamy mashed potato or Katherine's Gravy for Dressing can elevate the dish further. This chicken pairs beautifully with a light white wine or a refreshing lemonade to balance the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat the oven to 350°F, place the chicken in a baking dish, and cover it with foil to retain moisture, reheating for about 20-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herb Butter Roasted Chicken contains roughly 241 calories, with 27g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (272% of the Daily Value), protein (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 548mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a frozen chicken, but it must be completely thawed before cooking. To safely thaw, place the chicken in the refrigerator for 24 hours before roasting. Cooking from frozen is not recommended, as it may result in uneven cooking.
What if I don't have fresh garlic?
If you don't have fresh garlic, you can substitute it with 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. While fresh garlic offers a more vibrant flavor, garlic powder can still provide a nice taste. Just be sure to mix it well with the butter and herbs.
How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?
The best way to check if the chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone; it should read 165°F. Additionally, the juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).