Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken with Root Vegetables

When days are busy - I'm sure many of us have grabbed the already made rotisserie chicken from the grocery store - plastic bag and all! Well, it's not that difficult to make it at home - pasture-raised and organic - just the way our bodies like it!

This classic lemon herb roasted chicken is a complete meal with hearty root veggies to keep you full and satisfied. Fragrant herbs like rosemary, garlic and marjoram are complemented with the brightness of lemon zest all tied together with grass-fed butter.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 (4-5 lb.) whole chicken

• 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp. lemon zest

• 1 tsp dried marjoram

• 1 tsp. dried thyme

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp sea salt

• 1/2 tsp cracked black pepper

• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

• 1 lemon, halved

• 3 cups peeled/chopped turnips

• 2 cups chopped carrots

• 1 cup chopped red onion

EQUIPMENT:

• Dutch oven or heavy pan

DIRECTIONS:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. scatter chopped turnips, carrots and red onion in the bottom of a Dutch oven. rinse chicken thoroughly under cool water and pat dry with paper towel on skin and in cavity.

2. Place chicken on top of the veggies. Stir together softened butter, thyme, marjoram, lemon zest, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Rub butter under skin on breasts and all over the top of the skin. Add a large chunk of butter to the cavity along with rosemary sprigs and half of the lemon.

3. Tuck wings behind chicken and tie legs together, place in the oven on middle rack. Roast for 20 minutes

4. Reduce heat to 375 degrees and continue to roast for 45 minutes-1 hour or until a meat thermometer inserted into chicken thigh reads 165 degrees.

5. Remove from oven and rest chicken for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Nutritional Benefits of the Ingredients

1. Whole Chicken:

   • Lean Protein: Provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair, immune support, and overall energy.

   • Rich in Nutrients: Chicken contains B vitamins (especially B6 and B12) that support brain and nerve health.

     
     

2. Butter with Herbs and Lemon:

   • Healthy Fats: The grass-fed butter adds flavor, enhancing satiety and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

   • Herbs (Thyme, Marjoram, Rosemary): These are rich in antioxidants, supporting immune health and reducing inflammation.

   • Lemon Zest: Adds a burst of vitamin C, which boosts immunity and promotes collagen production for healthy skin and joints.

     
     

3. Vegetables (Turnips, Carrots, Red Onion):

   • Turnips: Low in calories and high in fiber, promoting digestive health. They also contain vitamin C and antioxidants.

   • Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function.

   • Red Onion: Contains quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that may reduce inflammation and support heart health.

     
     

Healthier Cooking Method

• Roasting: Retains nutrients in the vegetables and chicken while minimizing the need for excessive oils or fats.

• Dutch Oven: Promotes even cooking, helping the natural flavors blend while reducing the risk of overcooking.

  
  

Balanced Meal

This recipe includes:

• Protein: From the chicken, essential for repair and energy.

• Fiber and Nutrients: From the turnips, carrots, and onion, supporting gut health and blood sugar regulation.

• Healthy Fats: From the butter and natural oils in the chicken, providing lasting energy and flavor.

  
  

Pro Tips:

• Enjoy the leftovers in wraps, salads, soups or tacos to reduce food waste and make meal prep easier.

Lemon Herb Whole Chicken

Wild Pastures. (2021). Lemon herb roasted chicken with root vegetables. In The regenerative kitchen recipe book (p. 68). Wild Pastures Publishing.