Slow-Roasted Lemon Dill Chicken is a beautifully fragrant and tender dish that brings together the bright, zesty flavors of lemon with the fresh, aromatic notes of dill. This recipe involves slow-roasting the chicken, allowing it to absorb all the wonderful flavors while staying incredibly moist and juicy. The lemon slices and fresh dill infuse the meat with a light, refreshing taste, making it perfect for a satisfying dinner that feels both comforting and elegant. Paired with roasted vegetables or a simple salad, this chicken dish is sure to become a favorite for both weeknight meals and special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
- 3 lemons (2 sliced, 1 juiced)
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or white wine
- Fresh dill sprigs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the inside of the chicken with a mix of salt, pepper, and paprika. Stuff the cavity with half of the lemon slices, a few sprigs of fresh dill, and half of the minced garlic.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, remaining minced garlic, and chopped dill. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. Place the remaining lemon slices on top of and around the chicken.
- Slow-roast the chicken: Place the chicken in a roasting pan or a large, oven-safe skillet. Pour the chicken broth or white wine into the bottom of the pan to keep the chicken moist during roasting. Cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil.
- Roast in the oven: Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, remove the foil to allow the chicken skin to brown and become crispy.
- Rest and serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Garnish with fresh dill sprigs and serve with your choice of sides.
Slow-Roasted Lemon Dill Chicken is a flavorful, tender, and juicy dish that’s perfect for a leisurely meal. The combination of lemon and dill creates a fresh and aromatic profile, making this dish as delightful to eat as it is to prepare.
