Tender, golden-roasted chicken infused with fresh lemon and fragrant rosemary, served alongside crispy, buttery potatoes — a simple, wholesome Mediterranean-style dish that’s both comforting and elegant.

🕒 Time Overview

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Rest Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

🐔 Ingredients

For the Chicken & Marinade

  • 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs / 1.5–1.8 kg), or 4 bone-in chicken thighs or breasts
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 lemon — zested and juiced
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1½ teaspoons dried rosemary)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (for a warm golden color)

For the Potatoes

  • 1½ lbs (700 g) baby or Yukon gold potatoes, halved
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon rosemary or thyme
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh rosemary sprigs
  • Lemon slices

🍽 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    This temperature ensures a crisp, golden skin while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside.
  2. Prepare the chicken by patting it completely dry with paper towels.
    Removing excess moisture helps the skin roast beautifully and prevents steaming.

Step 2: Make and Apply the Marinade

  1. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme (if using), salt, pepper, and paprika.
    Stir until you have a fragrant, slightly thick marinade.
  2. Rub the marinade generously all over the chicken — inside and out. If using a whole chicken, you can carefully lift the skin around the breasts and thighs to rub some of the marinade underneath for maximum flavor.
  3. Marinate the chicken for at least 15–30 minutes at room temperature.
    For deeper flavor, cover and refrigerate for up to 4 hours (bring to room temperature before roasting).

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

  1. In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Arrange the potatoes in a large roasting pan or ovenproof baking dish.
    Spread them in a single layer so they roast evenly and crisp up nicely.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken and Potatoes

  1. Place the marinated chicken on top of or beside the potatoes in the pan. If you’re roasting a whole chicken, make sure it’s breast-side up.
  2. Roast uncovered for about 60–70 minutes, or until:
    • The internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), and
    • The skin is golden and crisp.
  3. Halfway through roasting, baste the chicken with the pan juices and give the potatoes a stir for even browning.
    This step adds beautiful flavor and keeps everything moist and caramelized.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

  1. Once roasted, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
    Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.
  2. Transfer the potatoes to a serving platter alongside the chicken. Spoon some of the golden pan drippings over the top for added richness.
  3. Garnish with a few fresh rosemary sprigs and thin lemon slices for a vibrant, aromatic finish.
  4. Serve warm, with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

🍷 Serving & Pairing Ideas

  • Wine pairing: A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the lemony flavors beautifully.
  • Side dishes: Try pairing with roasted asparagus, sautéed green beans, or a Greek salad for a Mediterranean twist.
  • Leftovers: The chicken can be shredded for wraps, salads, or sandwiches — it stays delicious even cold!

🧑‍🍳 Tips for Success

  • Crispier skin: For extra-crisp skin, rub a bit of softened butter on the chicken before roasting.
  • Even cooking: If using a whole chicken, tie the legs together with kitchen twine for even roasting.
  • Flavor boost: Add a few lemon wedges and whole garlic cloves to the pan before roasting. They’ll caramelize beautifully and add incredible aroma.

💛 Summary

This Lemon Rosemary Roast Chicken with Crispy Potatoes brings together the rustic charm of Mediterranean cooking — bright citrus, fragrant herbs, and hearty textures. It’s an effortlessly elegant meal perfect for Sunday dinners, gatherings, or meal prep for the week.