Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken

Name: Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 lemon, quartered; 1 onion, quartered

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love preparing Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken for my family. This dish has become an integral part of our weekend traditions, filling the kitchen with incredible aromas of fresh herbs and roasted garlic. The process of seasoning the chicken with a blend of rosemary, thyme, and sage makes every bite bursting with flavor. I take great joy in serving this meal, as it not only warms the heart but also brings everyone together around the table, creating lasting memories that we cherish.

Created by

Olivia Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:10:12.085Z

When I first tried roasting a chicken with fresh herbs, I was amazed at how the flavors developed and complemented each other. The secret lies in the technique – letting the chicken rest after roasting allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice tender and juicy. I rarely skip this step, as it truly elevates the dish.

This recipe was inspired by my grandmother's traditional Sunday dinners. Every visit, her herb-roasted chicken was the centerpiece of our family feast. It reminded me of the importance of simplicity and freshness in cooking, showing that quality ingredients speak for themselves.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Aromatic blend of fresh herbs for an irresistible flavor
Easy to prepare yet impressive for any gathering
Juicy chicken with crispy, golden skin in every bite

      

Choosing the Perfect Chicken

When selecting a whole chicken for roasting, aim for one that is organic and free-range when possible. These types often yield more flavorful meat and a richer broth when making gravy. Look for a bird with firm, plump breasts and a pink hue. Avoid any signs of discoloration or a foul odor, which can indicate freshness issues.

Size matters when roasting, as smaller chickens (around 4 pounds) tend to cook more evenly. If you have a larger chicken, you may need to extend the cooking time, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure doneness without drying out the meat. A whole chicken that's 4-5 pounds typically requires about 20 minutes per pound at 425°F.

Flavorful Herb Mixture

The combination of rosemary, thyme, and sage not only imparts a distinct aroma but also enhances the overall flavor profile. Fresh herbs retain more potency compared to dried ones, so I recommend sticking with fresh whenever possible. If you need to substitute, use dried herbs in a pinch but reduce the amount to about a third since dried herbs are more concentrated.

To make the herb mixture stick better, consider adding a bit of lemon zest along with the garlic. This adds another layer of brightness, balancing the rich flavors of the roasted chicken. Make sure to rub the mixture generously under the skin, which allows the juices to carry the flavor throughout the chicken as it cooks.

Perfect Roasting Technique

Roasting requires careful monitoring of your oven temperature and meat's internal temperature. For a beautifully browned skin, preheating to 425°F is ideal as it promotes crispy results. Start with an initial high heat and, if necessary, you can cover the chicken with foil after about 45 minutes if it browns too quickly.

Ensure your chicken is positioned breast-side up in the roasting pan to allow the juices to flow into the meat, keeping it moist. I recommend placing a rack underneath the chicken if available; this will help it roast evenly by circulating hot air around it. If you don't have a rack, a bed of root vegetables can provide the same support and also yield delicious, flavorful sides.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken:

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 lemon, quartered
1 onion, quartered

Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect roast chicken:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the skin.

Season Generously

In a small bowl, mix the fresh herbs, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture under the skin and all over the chicken.

Add Aromatics

Place the lemon and onion quarters inside the cavity of the chicken.

Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the roasting pan halfway through cooking. This helps create a flavorful base for gravy.

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover roasted chicken, make sure to let it cool completely before shredding or slicing it. Store the pieces in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the leftover meat. Place the chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers, and it should last for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label your containers with dates for easy reference.

When reheating, ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure safety and maintain quality. I recommend reheating in the oven at a low temperature (around 350°F) for about 15-20 minutes for even heating, or use the stovetop if making chicken soup or a stir-fry.

Serving Suggestions

Sunday Herb Roasted Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic approach, serve it alongside roasted potatoes, steamed seasonal vegetables, or a fresh salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette. The zesty side contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the chicken.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider using the leftover chicken to create new meals, such as a creamy chicken pot pie or shredded chicken tacos. Both options are great ways to enjoy the flavors from your Sunday feast again while minimizing food waste.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

For those struggling with undercooked chicken, ensure that your thermometer is correctly calibrated for accurate readings. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast and avoid touching the bone, which can give a false reading. A fully cooked chicken should reach 165°F at the thickest point.

On the flip side, if you encounter dry meat, it’s often due to overcooking or using a chicken that’s not fresh. A brining step before roasting or using higher-fat chickens can help retain moisture. If this happens, consider rehydrating the meat with a chicken broth or gravy when serving to add flavor and moisture back in.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

→ What temperature should the chicken be cooked to?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it's fully cooked.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can season the chicken the night before and roast it the next day for even more flavor.