When the aroma of roasting chicken fills the house, it signals more than just dinner—it’s the invitation to slow down and enjoy a special moment together. This roast chicken with honey garlic glaze brings a balance of sweet and savory that lingers in the air and on the tongue, promising comfort with every serving.
One evening, I pulled this roast chicken from the oven just as the sun was setting. The honey garlic glaze had caramelized perfectly, coating the chicken in a glossy, golden finish that caught the light. As I carved into it, the skin crackled gently, releasing a burst of fragrant garlic and smoky paprika. The lemon and rosemary tucked inside added a subtle brightness to the rich meat, making each bite feel like a warm embrace. Around the table, laughter mixed with the clinking of plates, and for a moment, all the day’s worries melted away into the simple joy of sharing a meal.
- Succulent and tender meat with a crispy, flavorful skin
- A harmonious glaze that blends honey’s sweetness with savory garlic and herbs
- Roasting method that fills your home with inviting aromas
- Perfect for family dinners or special weekend meals
- Simple preparation that feels impressive without extra fuss
If you’re worried about the glaze burning, a light tent of foil will keep things just right without sacrificing that beautiful color. And resting the bird after roasting locks in all those juicy flavors, making carving effortless.
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Roast Chicken with Honey Garlic Glaze
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A succulent roast chicken glazed with a sweet and savory honey garlic sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
1 whole chicken (about 4 pounds), patted dry
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 lemon, quartered
4 sprigs fresh rosemary
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Season the whole chicken generously inside and out with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Stuff the chicken cavity with the quartered lemon and fresh rosemary sprigs.
Place the chicken breast-side up on a roasting rack set inside a roasting pan.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and dried thyme to create the honey garlic glaze.
Brush about half of the honey garlic glaze evenly over the chicken, reserving the rest for later.
Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, baste the chicken with the remaining honey garlic glaze and continue roasting for an additional 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
If the chicken skin begins to brown too quickly, tent loosely with aluminum foil.
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Serve the roast chicken with any pan juices drizzled over the top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I prepare this chicken ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat gently to maintain moisture.
What if I don’t have fresh rosemary or lemon?
Dried thyme in the glaze adds herbal depth, and you can substitute lemon with a splash of vinegar for brightness.
Is this recipe suitable for beginner cooks?
Yes—seasoning and glazing are straightforward, and roasting is hands-off once the chicken is in the oven.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
A meat thermometer is your best friend; aim for 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
Ready to bring this comforting roast chicken to your table? Save this recipe, gather your ingredients, and let the honey garlic glaze work its magic.