Lemon Basil Chicken

By melanieroe

6 Servings
Prep: 15 min.
Bake: 1-1/4 hours + standing

Nutrition Facts: 1 serving equals 282 calories, 18 g fat (6 g saturated fat), 98 mg cholesterol, 299 mg sodium, 1 g carbohydrate, trace fiber, 28 g protein.

Ingredients

• 1 medium lemon
• 2 garlic cloves, divided
• 1/4 cup minced fresh basil, divided
• 1 broiler/fryer chicken (3 to 4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Preparation

Step 1

Finely grate enough peel from lemon to measure 2 teaspoons. Cut lemon in half; squeeze juice from one half. Set aside. Slice one garlic clove; place sliced garlic, 2 tablespoons basil and the remaining lemon half in the chicken cavity.

Place chicken, breast side up, in a shallow roasting pan; rub with reserved lemon juice. Mince remaining garlic; combine with butter and reserved lemon peel. Brush mixture over chicken. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and remaining basil.

Bake, uncovered, at 375° for 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 hours or until a meat thermometer reads 180°. Let stand for 15 minutes before carving. Yield: 6 servings.