Lemon and honey roast chicken

Lemon and Honey Roast Chicken combines zesty lemon juice and sweet honey for a moist, flavorful dish. Perfectly roasted, this chicken is ideal for any gathering or special occasion.

19 Nov 2025
Cook time 80 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

3 lb whole chicken
1/2 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tsp honey

{'title': 'Lemon and Honey Roast Chicken', 'description': 'This Lemon and Honey Roast Chicken is a perfect blend of citrus and sweetness, creating a moist and flavorful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and elegant meal that’s perfect for any occasion.'}

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, and honey until well combined. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

3. Prepare the Chicken:
Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any giblets from the cavity if present.

4. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken in a large baking dish or roasting pan. Pour the lemon and honey marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. You can use a brush or your hands to make sure the marinade covers all parts of the chicken. For extra flavor, you can also place fresh herbs, lemon slices, and garlic cloves inside the cavity of the chicken.

5. Season the Chicken:
Sprinkle additional salt and pepper over the chicken, if desired. This will help to enhance the flavors as the chicken roasts.

6. Truss the Chicken (Optional):
To ensure even cooking, you can truss the chicken by tying the legs together with kitchen twine. This helps to keep the chicken compact and evenly roasted.

7. Roast the Chicken:
Place the chicken in the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

8. Baste the Chicken:
Occasionally baste the chicken with the juices in the pan during roasting. This will help keep the chicken moist and enhance the flavor.

9. Rest the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.

10. Serve:
Carve the chicken and serve it with your favorite side dishes. The lemon and honey-infused flavors pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

{'summary': "With its golden-brown skin and succulent, juicy meat, this Lemon and Honey Roast Chicken is a delightful dish that's both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Serve it with your favorite side dishes and enjoy a wholesome, delicious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.", 'note': "Don't forget to garnish your roast chicken with some fresh herbs or extra lemon slices for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your meal!"}

Lemon and honey roast chicken FAQ:

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

Roast the 3 lb whole chicken for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh for safe consumption.

How can I tell when the chicken is done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Alternatively, the juices should run clear when you pierce the meat.

Can I substitute other sweeteners for honey in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness and flavor profile. Adjust the quantity slightly to taste, as different sweeteners may vary in sweetness.

How should I store leftovers from the roast chicken?

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; it will keep well for up to 4 months.

Is there a recommended way to baste the chicken while roasting?

Baste the chicken every 20-30 minutes during roasting using the juices in the pan. You can use a ladle or a spoon to drizzle the liquid over the chicken to help keep it moist and enhance the flavor.

Tips:

- Marinate the chicken: For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate in the lemon juice, olive oil, and honey mixture for at least an hour or even overnight in the refrigerator.

- Baste the chicken: Baste the chicken occasionally with the pan juices during roasting to keep it moist and enhance the flavors.

- Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the chicken (e.g., the thigh).

- Rest before carving: Let the chicken rest for about 10-15 minutes after roasting before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier chicken.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 510kcal
Protein 44g
Carbohydrates 1.17g
Fiber 0.04g
Sugar 0.62g
Fat 44g

Lemon and honey roast chicken