LEMON & GARLIC ROAST CHICKEN

By: Gleason Center Editors, Photo courtesy Gregory S. Bozik

Chicken is packed with essential nutrients like phosphorus, vitamin B, and vitamin D for healthy bones and muscles. Animal protein sources, like chicken, are complete proteins which provide our bodies with all nine of the essential amino acids. These amino acids are the building blocks necessary for healthy hormone balance, weight management, and steady blood sugar.

We love roasting up this classic, whole chicken recipe at the beginning of the week for our family to enjoy. This juicy and flavorful chicken makes delicious leftovers and is certain to become a favorite in your recipe box.​

​INGREDIENTS
1 Organic Roasting Chicken* (5-6 lb., Free Range)
1 Bunch Fresh Thyme
4 Lemons
3 Heads Garlic
3 Tbsp Olive Oil
1 Cup White Wine
¾ Cup Organic Chicken Stock
Kosher Salt
Black Pepper (Freshly Ground)

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F.
2. Remove chicken giblets from cavity, then wash and thoroughly dry chicken. Line a plate with paper towels and place chicken on the plate.
3. Liberally salt and pepper inside of chicken and stuff the cavity with the thyme, two halved lemons and two halved garlic cloves. Place chicken in large roasting pan.
4. Brush outside of the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle again with salt and pepper.
5. Cut remaining two lemons into quarters and place them (and remaining garlic) around the chicken.
6. Roast for 60-100 minutes, depending on the size of the bird. Use meat thermometer to ensure chicken has reached 165 degrees F.
7. Allow to rest for 10-15 minutes.
8. Gravy (If you're NOT detoxing): Remove all but 2 tbsp. of fat from the bottom of the pan. Add 1 cup wine and ½ cup chicken stock. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until reduced by half.
9. Slice chicken on a platter and garnish with thyme and lemon slices.
   
10. Serve with gravy and enjoy!

*Purchasing a Healthy Chicken: Avoid conventional, unhealthy, factory farmed chicken and choose a healthy bird for your family's dinner. Ideally, purchase your chicken from a local farm where you can trust the source (i.e. a truly free range chicken)! Second best, look for a bird labeled Certified Organic along with the Animal Welfare Approved, Certified Humane, or Global Animal Partnership labels.

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If you like this recipe, you might also enjoy: Healing Bone Broth