Pollo al Forno con Limone e Rosmarino (Oven-Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Rosemary)

When it comes to Italian cuisine, few dishes capture the essence of simplicity and flavor quite like Pollo al Forno con Limone e Rosmarino. This dish features tender, juicy chicken infused with the bright, zesty notes of lemon and the earthy aroma of rosemary, making it a perfect centerpiece for family dinners or gatherings. From my own personal experience, I can tell you that the combination of fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques makes this recipe a winner every time. Let me show you how I make this delightful dish.

Notes on What to Expect

You can expect a wonderfully aromatic dish, with the chicken’s skin being perfectly crisp and the meat incredibly moist. The citrus and herbal notes meld beautifully, creating a vibrant flavor profile that will impress your family and friends.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Time to Stand: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Ease of Cooking: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350 calories
• Cost of Ingredients: $15 (approximately)
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Dish

Equipment Needed

• Roasting pan or baking dish
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Zester or grater (for lemon zest)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or a fork
• Oven
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Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or breasts, if preferred)
  • 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a kick)
• For Serving:
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges
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Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to crisp the chicken skin while keeping the meat juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, olive oil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk together until well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. If time allows, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.

Step 4: Arrange in the Baking Dish

If marinating in the fridge, remove the chicken about 15 minutes before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Transfer the chicken to a roasting pan or baking dish, skin side up. Pour any remaining marinade over the top.

Step 5: Roast the Chicken

Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Halfway through roasting, you can baste the chicken with the juices for added flavor and moisture.

Step 6: Let it Rest

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it stand for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon wedges. Serve alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with hearty vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Follow the same marinating and roasting instructions.
• Different Herbs: Try using thyme or oregano instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Add Potatoes: Cut small potatoes in half and add them to the roasting pan for a complete one-pan meal.

Tips and Substitutions

• For a lighter version: Use skinless chicken pieces to reduce fat.
• If you prefer boneless chicken: Adjust the cooking time to about 30-40 minutes for chicken breasts or thighs.
• Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Nutritional Information Per Serving

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 1g

Closing

I hope this guide has made making Pollo al Forno con Limone e Rosmarino seem a little less daunting! Have you tried it before? Please, be honest, and let me know in the comments below. I like to hear feedback from a real person like you, so please, leave your honest comment. Enjoy your cooking adventure!