If you are looking for a delicious yet low-cost meal, then this Baked Lemon Rosemary Chicken Recipe is it. Using a whole fryer chicken saves money and will not only turn out a tasty meal, but will provide you with delicious leftovers.
Baking Sheet Baked Lemon Rosemary Chicken
Save money on your grocery bill by learning how to properly bake a whole chicken. This recipe is so easy to prepare because the chicken is baked right on your baking sheet!
A fryer chicken is a young tender chicken that is perfect for sheet pan cooking. Dinner will turn out amazingly delicious with very little effort.
- Leftovers are perfect – so make enough to save for another meal.
Just a few Simple Ingredients Make this Delicious Meal
- Lemon
- Sprigs of Fresh Rosemary
- Whole Fryer Chicken
- Cloves of Garlic
- Olive Oil

A frugal meal that is delicious - chicken with lemon and rosemary
- 2 large lemons
- 4-5 large sprigs rosemary divided
- 1 5 lb. whole fryer chicken, cut into parts (bone in, skin on)
- 3-4 large garlic cloves finely minced
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- salt and black pepper to taste
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Preheat oven to 400ºF and line a large rimmed baking sheet with a piece of parchment paper or a Silpat™ baking sheet. Set aside.
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Thinly slice both lemons, then cut the slices from one lemon into quarters. Break 2 of the rosemary sprigs into small pieces. Set aside.
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Arrange the chicken on the prepared baking sheet without overcrowding. Use a sharp knife to gently lift the skin and sprinkle the meat with salt and black pepper, as desired.
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Create a pocket under the skin with the knife and insert the quartered lemon slices, minced garlic, and the small pieces of rosemary inside. Drizzle the olive oil onto the chicken skin and coat the entire surface with a pastry brush. Sprinkle with additional salt and black pepper, as desired.
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Scatter the whole lemon slices and rosemary sprigs onto the baking sheet and place into the pre-heated oven. Roast for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 160°F on an instant-read thermometer and is nicely browned on top.
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Remove from oven and brush the pan juices over the chicken with a clean pastry brush. Cover loosely with foil and rest for 5 minutes. Remove cover and brush pan juices over the chicken again. Discard rosemary sprigs and lemon slices before serving with your choice of sides. Enjoy!
Tip: For best results, sprinkle salt and black pepper under the skin prior to stuffing with the lemon, rosemary, and garlic.
*Cook meat to temperature, not by time. Actual cooking time will vary based on a number of factors, including internal starting temperature, individual oven variations, size and thickness of the meat, what else is in the oven while cooking, etc…
The minimum safe recommended cooking temperature for bone-in chicken is 165°F (74°C). Check for doneness (at least 160°F as temperature will rise several degrees as the meat rests) with an instant-read thermometer after 35-40 minutes and adjust final cook time accordingly.
What to Serve with Your Lemon Chicken?
White or Brown Rice
Baby Potatoes
Parmesan Potatoes
The Best Mashed Potatoes
What to do with Leftover Lemon Rosemary Chicken?
Leftover chicken heats up well and is perfect for leftovers the next day!
- Chop up cold chicken for a flavorful cold chicken salad
- Chop up chicken and add to rice with green peas
- Chicken Sandwiches
- Lemon and Orzo Chicken Soup
- Chicken Tacos
- Chicken Quesadillas
We love dinners that are delicious, nutritious yet easy on the family budget! Try these recipes for your next meal.
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Skillet Mexican Chicken with White Beans
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Easy Spaghetti White Sauce