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Homemade Herb Butter Roast Chicken with Pan Gravy photo

Herb Butter Roast Chicken with Pan Gravy

This Herb Butter Roast Chicken with Pan Gravy is a comforting, juicy, and flavorful classic that's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken about 4-5 lbs, rinsed and patted dry
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 carrots chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped

Equipment

  • Roasting pan or oven-safe skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Basting brush or spoon

Method
 

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with chopped rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly distributed.
  2. Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels. Loosen the skin from the breasts and thighs carefully. Spread about two-thirds of the herb butter under the skin and rub the rest over the outside. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Place the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of a roasting pan or oven-safe skillet.
  4. Put the chicken on top of the vegetables, breast side up. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste halfway through.
  5. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and tent with foil. Rest for 15-20 minutes.
  6. Place the roasting pan with vegetables and drippings on the stove over medium heat. Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir to form a roux. Cook 2 minutes. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, scraping bottom until gravy thickens (4-5 minutes). Adjust seasoning.
  7. Carve the rested chicken and serve with roasted vegetables. Drizzle generously with pan gravy.

Notes

  • Soften butter ahead for easy mixing and spreading under the skin.
  • Loosen skin carefully to avoid tearing for better flavor penetration.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken without drying out.
  • Roast at high temperature for crispy, golden skin.
  • Store leftover chicken and gravy separately for best flavor; freeze for up to 3 months.