Imagine a dish that combines the zesty brightness of lemon with the savory richness of herb butter, perfectly complementing succulent chicken and vibrant asparagus. That’s exactly what this Lemon Herb Butter Roast Chicken with Asparagus offers. It’s a delightful recipe that not only satisfies your taste buds but also makes for a healthy dinner recipe.
This Lemon Herb Chicken is your go-to for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. The garlic butter chicken flavor infuses every bite, while the fresh asparagus adds a pop of color and nutrition to the plate. This Chicken and Asparagus pairing is not just delicious, but also quick and easy, making it ideal for those busy evenings.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and elegance. With just a few ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering dish that looks and tastes gourmet. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this Sheet Pan Chicken and Asparagus dish is sure to impress.
A Perfectly Roasted Chicken Recipe
The Lemon Herb Butter Roast Chicken with Asparagus is a delightful dish that effortlessly combines the lively zest of lemon with the savory essence of herb butter. This recipe is perfect for anyone seeking a healthy dinner option that does not compromise on flavor.
With its sumptuous garlic butter chicken flavor, this Lemon Herb Chicken serves as a delicious centerpiece for any meal. The addition of fresh asparagus not only enhances the presentation but also provides a nutritious element to the dish, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients to Elevate Your Meal
A few select ingredients transform this recipe into a gourmet feast. You will need a whole chicken, preferably around 4-5 pounds, and a generous half-cup of unsalted butter softened to create that rich herb butter.
The recipe calls for the zest and juice of two lemons, four cloves of minced garlic, fresh thyme, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Don’t forget the fresh asparagus, trimmed to perfection, which adds a vibrant crunch to the plate.
Preparation Steps for Success
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a beautifully roasted chicken. While the oven warms, prepare the herb butter mixture by combining the softened butter with lemon juice, zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. This mixture will infuse the chicken with incredible flavors.
Next, dry the chicken thoroughly and loosen the skin on its breasts and thighs to allow the herb butter to penetrate deeply, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Once you’ve done this, rub half of the herb butter mixture under the skin and all over the chicken.
Roasting Techniques for Perfection
After the chicken is seasoned, arrange the trimmed asparagus around it on a large sheet pan. Drizzle the remaining herb butter over the asparagus, tossing them to coat evenly. This technique helps the asparagus roast beautifully alongside the chicken.
Now it’s time to roast! Place the chicken and asparagus in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the internal temperature of the chicken, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) for a perfectly cooked meal with a golden-brown appearance.
Finishing Touches and Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to rest before carving. Pour any pan drippings into a small saucepan, adding white wine if desired for a richer sauce. Simmer until slightly reduced, creating a flavorful pour-over for your chicken and asparagus.
For presentation, carve the chicken and serve it alongside the beautifully roasted asparagus. Drizzle with the sauce for an added layer of flavor. This Lemon Herb Butter Roast Chicken with Asparagus not only satisfies your palate but also pleases the eyes, making it a winner for any dinner table!
The Perfect Pairing
To complement this exquisite dish, a glass of crisp white wine works wonders. The acidity in the wine pairs beautifully with the bright flavors of the lemon and the richness of the herb butter chicken.
This meal is more than just delicious; it becomes an experience. The inviting aroma, vibrant colors, and succulent textures make it a standout option for gatherings or romantic dinners alike.
A Perfectly Roasted Chicken Recipe
This Lemon Herb Butter Roast Chicken with Asparagus features tender chicken infused with a rich lemon herb butter, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main dish. The asparagus adds a fresh crunch, making this Chicken Asparagus Recipe a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 lemons, juiced and zested
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
- 1/2 cup white wine (optional for the sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Herb Butter: In a bowl, combine the softened butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin on the chicken breast and thighs. Rub half of the herb butter mixture under the skin and all over the chicken.
- Arrange Asparagus: Place the trimmed asparagus around the chicken on a large sheet pan. Drizzle the remaining herb butter over the asparagus and toss to coat.
- Roast the Chicken: Roast the chicken and asparagus in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
- Make the Sauce: If using, remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a platter. Pour the pan drippings into a small saucepan, add the white wine, and simmer for a few minutes until reduced slightly.
- Serve: Carve the chicken and serve alongside the roasted asparagus. Drizzle with the sauce if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 10g