Garlic Herb Butter Roast

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Recipes

This Garlic Herb Butter Roast is a succulent dish bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-29T17:07:27.792Z

This Garlic Herb Butter Roast is a delightful centerpiece for your dinner table, combining the richness of butter with aromatic herbs.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Aromatic garlic and fresh herbs create an irresistible flavor.
  • Juicy and tender meat that falls off the bone.
  • Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

The Magic of Garlic and Herbs

Garlic is a beloved ingredient in kitchens around the world, known for its intense aroma and robust flavor. When combined with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley, it transforms simple dishes into gourmet meals. The interplay of these flavors in this roast creates a mouthwatering experience that tantalizes the taste buds, making it a favorite for both casual dinners and festive gatherings.

The herb butter not only enhances the taste of the chicken but also helps to keep it moist during roasting. As the butter melts, it seeps into the meat, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. This technique of butter under the skin is a chef's secret for achieving that perfect golden-brown color and crispy texture on the outside, while the inside remains juicy and tender.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday celebration, this Garlic Herb Butter Roast is an impressive centerpiece that will leave your guests raving. The simplicity of the recipe means you can focus on spending time with loved ones rather than stressing in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a stunning dish that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Not only is this roast visually appealing, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes. The versatility of the flavors allows you to customize your meal to suit any palate, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Tips for the Perfect Roast

To ensure your Garlic Herb Butter Roast turns out perfectly every time, it's essential to start with a high-quality chicken. Look for organic or free-range options whenever possible, as these tend to have better flavor and texture. Additionally, allowing the chicken to come to room temperature before roasting can help it cook more evenly.

Don’t forget to baste the chicken a couple of times during the roasting process. This will not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to that beautiful, crispy skin everyone loves. If you notice the skin browning too quickly, you can tent the chicken with aluminum foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Make sure to have everything ready before you begin cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect roast.

Prepare the Butter Mixture

In a bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Carefully loosen the skin on the chicken breast and thighs.

Apply the Butter

Spread half of the herb butter mixture under the skin of the chicken. Rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the chicken.

Add Lemon

Place the lemon wedges inside the cavity of the chicken.

Roast the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Enjoy!

Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite sides.

Storing Leftovers

If you're lucky enough to have leftovers after your meal, storing them properly is key to maintaining their flavor and texture. Allow the chicken to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for longer shelf life. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheat the chicken gently in the oven or microwave. If reheating in the oven, cover it with foil to keep it moist. This way, you can savor the delicious flavors of your Garlic Herb Butter Roast even after the initial feast.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Herb Butter Roast pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted seasonal vegetables for a healthy, colorful plate. Classic options like green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts complement the rich flavors of the chicken beautifully.

If you prefer a starch, creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy rice pilaf can soak up the savory juices from the roast. Don't forget a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish, adding a refreshing crunch to your meal.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other herbs?

Yes, feel free to substitute with your favorite herbs like sage or basil.

→ How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can prepare the butter and marinate the chicken a day ahead.

→ What should I serve with this roast?

This roast pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Garlic Herb Butter Roast

This Garlic Herb Butter Roast is a succulent dish bursting with flavor, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration90 minutes
Overall Time110 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Home Comfort Recipes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 6 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
  2. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  3. 4 cloves garlic, minced
  4. 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  5. 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
  6. 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  7. Salt and pepper to taste
  8. 1 lemon, cut into wedges

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 02

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Carefully loosen the skin on the chicken breast and thighs.

Step 03

Spread half of the herb butter mixture under the skin of the chicken. Rub the remaining butter all over the outside of the chicken.

Step 04

Place the lemon wedges inside the cavity of the chicken.

Step 05

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 06

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 240mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 0g
  • Protein: 40g