Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs)
- 1/4 cup Sallaku Olive Oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
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Preparation: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a roasting pan or a baking dish.
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Herb Marinade: In a small bowl, combine Sallaku Olive Oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix well to form a paste-like marinade.
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Marinating the Chicken: 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 herb marinade under the skin, massaging it gently to distribute the flavors. Rub the remaining marinade over the outside of the chicken, ensuring it's coated evenly.
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Roasting: Place the prepared chicken in the preheated oven and roast for about 20 minutes per pound (approximately 1 hour for a 3-4 lb chicken), or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the meat.
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Basting (Optional): If desired, baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through the roasting time to ensure it remains moist and flavorful.
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Resting and Serving: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
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Serve: Carve the chicken and serve it with your choice of sides—roasted vegetables, salad, or your favourite grains. Drizzle any remaining pan juices over the chicken for added flavour.
This Mediterranean Herb and Garlic Roasted Chicken, infused with the aromatic blend of herbs and Sallaku Olive Oil, promises a delightful dining experience that celebrates the richness and versatility of high-quality olive oil in culinary creations.
