Roasted Chicken with Lemon-Thyme Sauce and Asparagus
This roasted chicken is a classic dish that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. The lemon-thyme sauce is bright and flavorful, and the asparagus is a perfect accompaniment. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
I first learned how to make this dish from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, and she always made the best roasted chicken. I loved watching her cook, and I would always help her out in the kitchen. One day, I asked her to teach me how to make her roasted chicken, and she patiently showed me how to do it. I have been making this dish ever since, and it always brings back fond memories of my grandmother.
Roasted Chicken with Lemon-Thyme Sauce and Asparagus Roasted Chicken with Lemon-Thyme Sauce and Asparagus Roasted Chicken with Lemon-Thyme Sauce and Asparagus Roasted Chicken with Lemon-Thyme Sauce and Asparagus
Prep time: 20 | Cook time: 60 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 (4-pound) whole chicken
  • 1 lemon, zested and juiced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 pound asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and place in a large roasting pan. Brush the chicken with the lemon-thyme mixture.
  4. Toss the asparagus with the olive oil and spread around the chicken in the pan.
  5. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
  6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Why It Works
  • The lemon-thyme sauce is what makes this dish so special. The lemon zest adds a bright and citrusy flavor, while the thyme adds a subtle herbal note. The sauce is also thickened with a little bit of flour, which gives it a nice body.
  • The asparagus is a great accompaniment to the chicken. It is roasted until it is tender, but still has a little bit of a bite to it. The asparagus also adds a pop of color to the dish.
  • This dish is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste. You can add more or less lemon zest or thyme, depending on your preference. You can also use different vegetables, such as green beans or carrots, instead of asparagus.