Crispy skinned lemon chicken

Crispy skinned lemon chicken features a tangy and sweet marinade of honey, lemon juice, and soy sauce, resulting in a deliciously crispy skin. This oven-roasted dish is perfect for family dinners or impressing guests.

23 Nov 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

3 lb whole chicken
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup lemon juice
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp ginger root
1 tsp sesame seeds
1 lemon
2 shallots

Crispy skinned lemon chicken is a delectable dish that combines the tangy freshness of lemon with the sweet notes of honey and the savory depth of soy sauce and ginger. This recipe promises a perfect balance of flavors and a delightful crispiness that elevates the humble chicken to a gourmet experience. Perfect for a family dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

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. Ensure the chicken cavity is empty.

2. Marinade:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, lemon juice, soy sauce, and minced ginger root until well combined.

3. Season & Marinate:
- Place the chicken in a large bowl or deep roasting pan.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's well-coated both inside and out. Massage the marinade into the chicken skin and inside the cavity.
- Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for a deeper flavor infusion.

4. Prepare the Chicken:
- After marinating, place the chicken breast-side up in a roasting pan.
- Scatter the halved shallots around the chicken.
- Stuff the chicken cavity with the lemon slices.

5. Roasting:
- Roast the chicken uncovered in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
- Baste the chicken with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist and enhance the flavor.

6. Final Touches:
- In the last 10-15 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the sesame seeds evenly over the chicken for a final burst of flavor and crunch.

7. Resting:
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier chicken.

8. Serving:
- Carve the chicken and serve it with the roasted shallots and the remaining pan juices drizzled on top. If desired, garnish with additional lemon slices or fresh herbs for presentation.

Cooking crispy skinned lemon chicken brings out the best in the simple ingredients, creating a dish that is both elegant and comforting. With its crispy exterior and succulent interior, infused with the vibrant flavors of lemon, honey, and ginger, it's poised to become a regular feature on your dining table. Enjoy the harmonious blend of tastes and the satisfaction of serving a homemade gourmet meal.

Crispy skinned lemon chicken FAQ:

What is the ideal internal temperature for crispy skinned lemon chicken?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.

How long should I roast the chicken?

Roast the chicken uncovered for about 1 hour and 30 minutes in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C), basting every 20-30 minutes.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator can enhance the flavor. Just ensure it's well-sealed to prevent contamination.

What can I use as a substitute for honey in the marinade?

You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for a similar sweetness, although the flavor profile may differ slightly.

How should I store leftovers of crispy skinned lemon chicken?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.

Tips:

- To achieve the crispiest skin, ensure the chicken is very dry before applying any seasonings or marinade.

- For an extra burst of lemon flavor, stuff the cavity of the chicken with lemon slices before roasting.

- Basting the chicken with the honey-lemon mixture during roasting will enhance the glaze and add depth to the flavor.

- Rest the chicken for at least 10 minutes after roasting, which will help retain the juices and make it easier to carve.

- Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 1150kcal
Protein 90g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 1.62g
Sugar 27g
Fat 70g

Crispy skinned lemon chicken