Easy Lime Basil Roast Chicken

Infuse your next family dinner with vibrant citrus and herbaceous flavors by trying this Easy Lime Basil Roast Chicken! Perfectly roasted to golden-brown perfection, this juicy whole chicken is marinated in a zesty blend of lime zest, fresh basil, garlic, and paprika, with buttery richness tucked under its crispy skin. Stuffed with lime wedges and fragrant basil leaves, this dish promises to tantalize your taste buds with every bite. A garnish of basil and roasted lime slices completes the presentation, making it both delicious and visually stunning. Ready in just over an hour and a half, this aromatic roast chicken is an effortless yet elegant centerpiece that pairs wonderfully with side dishes like roasted vegetables or fluffy rice. Whether you're hosting a special gathering or preparing a cozy weeknight meal, this roasted chicken recipe is sure to delight!

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 approximately 4 lbs Whole chicken
• 2 Lime
• 1 cup Fresh basil leaves
• 3 tablespoons Olive oil
• 4 Garlic cloves, minced
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 teaspoon Paprika
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2

Rinse the whole chicken under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any giblets if included.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and the zest of one lime.

Step 4

Gently loosen the skin of the chicken by sliding your fingers underneath it, being careful not to tear it. Spread half of the seasoned olive oil mixture under the skin, and rub the remaining mixture all over the outside of the chicken.

Step 5

Cut one lime into quarters and stuff it along with the butter and half of the fresh basil leaves into the cavity of the chicken.

Step 6

Tie the chicken legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the bird to ensure even cooking.

Step 7

Place the chicken in a roasting pan or a cast-iron skillet, breast-side up.

Step 8

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 90 minutes or until the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the chicken with its pan juices every 20–30 minutes for added flavor and moisture.

Step 9

Thinly slice the second lime. During the last 10 minutes of roasting, place the slices over the chicken for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Step 10

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before carving. Garnish with the remaining fresh basil leaves to serve.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2062.6 grams (2062.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	919

Total Fat 81.50g	104%
Saturated Fat 24.80g	124%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.10g
Cholesterol 198mg	66%
Sodium 4880mg	212%
Total Carbohydrate 21.40g	8%
Dietary Fiber 6.30g	23%
Total Sugars 2.50g
Protein 37.60g	75%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 133mg	10%
Iron 5mg	25%
Potassium 740mg	16%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 75.7%

Protein: 15.5%

Carbs: 8.8%