Herb Roasted Chicken

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4 lb)
• 2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 head garlic, halved crosswise
• 6 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

1. Heat the oven Heat the oven to 425°F. Place a rack in a roasting pan.
2. Season the chicken Pat the chicken dry. Rub all over with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, garlic, and thyme. Rub the butter over the breast skin.
3. Roast until done Roast breast-side up for 1 hour 15 minutes, until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F and the skin is deep golden.
4. Rest before carving Transfer the chicken to a board and rest 10 minutes. Carve and spoon pan juices over the meat.