Rosemary & chilli chicken

This rosemary and chili chicken features a whole chicken marinated in zesty lemon juice and spicy chili, roasted to perfection with green beans and spinach. Perfect for a family dinner or special gathering, it melds bold flavors for a satisfying meal.

18 Dec 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

3 lb whole chicken
2 red hot chili peppers
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 tbsp rosemary
1 tbsp olive oil
1/3 cup green beans
2 cups spinach
Rosemary & chilli chicken

Cooking rosemary and chili chicken combines the aromatic flavors of rosemary with the spiciness of chili peppers, creating a delicious and zesty dish. Paired with green beans and spinach, this meal is both nutritious and full of bold flavors. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Marinade:
- Finely chop the 2 red hot chili peppers, making sure to remove the seeds if you prefer less heat.
- In a bowl, mix the chopped chili peppers with 1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of rosemary, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
- Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels.
- Place the chicken in a large roasting pan.
- Carefully pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. You can also lift the skin gently and rub some of the marinade underneath for more intense flavor.

4. Season and Add Vegetables:
- Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper.
- Add the green beans and fresh spinach around the chicken in the roasting pan. Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the vegetables and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Roast the Chicken:
- Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven.
- Roast the chicken for approximately 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear when the thickest part of the thigh is pierced with a skewer.

6. Baste Occasionally:
- Every 30 minutes, baste the chicken with the drippings in the pan to keep it moist and flavorful.
7. Rest and Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked, 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, ensuring it stays juicy.
8. Carve and Plate:
- Carve the chicken into serving pieces.
- Serve the chicken with the green beans and spinach from the pan on the side. The vegetables will have absorbed some of the delicious flavors from the chicken and the marinade.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful, spicy, and aromatic rosemary and chili chicken dish. Complemented by green beans and spinach, this recipe offers a balanced and nutritious meal that is as healthy as it is delicious. Enjoy your culinary creation!

Rosemary & chilli chicken FAQ:

How long should I roast a 3 lb whole chicken?

Roast the 3 lb whole chicken for approximately 1.5 hours at 375°F (190°C). It's crucial to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Can I substitute the red hot chili peppers?

Yes, you can substitute the red hot chili peppers with milder peppers, like bell peppers, for a less spicy flavor. Alternatively, use jalapeños for a similar heat level or add more chili if you prefer extra spice.

What should I do if the chicken is not browning well?

If the chicken is not browning well, ensure you baste it every 30 minutes with its own drippings and consider increasing the oven temperature slightly during the last 15 minutes of cooking, but monitor closely to prevent burning.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the chicken, which can last up to 2-3 months.

What pan size should I use for roasting this chicken?

Use a large roasting pan that allows space around the chicken for even heat circulation. A pan that is approximately 12x16 inches should work well for a 3 lb chicken along with the vegetables.

Tips:

- For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken in lemon juice, rosemary, and chopped chili peppers for at least 2 hours before cooking.

- To ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

- If you're sensitive to spice, you can reduce the number of chili peppers or deseed them to lessen the heat.

- Roast the chicken on a bed of green beans and spinach to infuse the vegetables with the flavorful chicken juices.

- Allow the chicken to rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking before carving. This helps retain the juices, making the meat more tender and flavorful.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 1040kcal
Protein 90g
Carbohydrates 4.34g
Fiber 1.09g
Sugar 2.06g
Fat 77g

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