Citrus roast chicken

Citrus roast chicken features a succulent whole chicken marinated with zesty lemon and lime, combined with garlic and oregano. Roasted alongside vibrant red onions and peppers, this dish is perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

03 Feb 2026
Cook time 80 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

3 lb whole chicken
1/3 cup olive oil
2 lemons
2 limes
2 garlic cloves
2 red onions
2 red peppers
1 tbsp dried oregano

Citrus roast chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the zesty tang of citrus fruits with the savory richness of roasted chicken. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering a juicy and tender main course that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. The use of lemons, limes, and garlic infuses the chicken with a delightful aroma and taste, while the red onions and red peppers add colorful and nutritious elements to the dish.

Instructions:

1. Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up.

2. Citrus and Garlic Mixture:
- Zest one lemon and one lime, then squeeze the juice from both lemons and limes into a small bowl.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
- Add the minced garlic, 1/3 cup of olive oil, and 1 tablespoon of dried oregano to the citrus juice. Mix well to combine.

3. Seasoning the Chicken:
- Using your hands or a brush, evenly coat the chicken with the citrus, garlic, and olive oil mixture. Make sure to get some of the mixture under the skin as well for added flavor.
- Season the chicken generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

4. Preparing Vegetables:
- Peel the red onions and cut them into quarters.
- Remove the seeds and white membrane from the red peppers, then cut them into strips.
- Place the onion quarters and red pepper strips around the chicken in the roasting pan.

5. Roasting the Chicken:
- If you desire, stuff the cavity of the chicken with the zested lemon and lime halves for added flavor.
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven and roast the chicken for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), and the juices run clear.
- Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through the roasting time to keep it moist.

6. Resting and Serving:
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist chicken.
- Carve the chicken and serve it with the roasted red onions and red peppers on the side.

Preparing a citrus roast chicken is a delightful way to impress your guests or elevate a family meal with minimal fuss. The marriage of citrus and savory elements offers a delightful explosion of flavors and ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful. By following the tips for marinating and roasting, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked, aromatic roast chicken that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Citrus roast chicken FAQ:

What is the baking time for a 3 lb whole chicken?

The recommended baking time for a 3 lb whole chicken is about 1 hour and 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

To ensure the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature at the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear when the chicken is pierced.

Can I use other vegetables instead of red onions and peppers?

Yes, you can substitute other vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or zucchini. Just ensure they can roast in the same time frame as the chicken.

How should I store leftover roast chicken?

Store leftover roast chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, ideally within 2-3 months.

What can I substitute for olive oil in this recipe?

You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter as a substitute for olive oil in the chicken marinade.

Tips:

- Ensure the chicken is at room temperature before roasting to promote even cooking.

- Marinate the chicken in the citrus mixture for at least an hour, or overnight, for enhanced flavor.

- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, which should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.

- Cover the chicken with aluminum foil if it starts to brown too quickly, ensuring it doesn't burn and remains juicy.

- Baste the chicken with the pan juices halfway through the cooking process to keep it moist.

- Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes after roasting before carving to retain its juices.

- For additional flavor, add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the roasting pan.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 1100kcal
Protein 90g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 7g
Sugar 8g
Fat 90g

Citrus roast chicken