Green garlic rubbed buttery roast chicken recipe to impress

Ingredients for Green garlic rubbed buttery roast chicken

• 1 (1.5–1.8 kg) whole chicken, patted dry

• kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

• 8 green garlic stalks, dark green tops removed, divided

• zest of 1 lemon

• 90 g unsalted butter, room temperature

• 60 ml extra-virgin olive oil

How to make Green garlic rubbed buttery roast chicken

1. Season the chicken generously all over, inside and out, with salt and pepper (about 4 tsp Diamond Crystal or 2½ tsp Morton kosher salt). Place it on a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking tray and let it sit at room temperature while you prepare the garlic butter, or chill it uncovered for up to 1 day. If chilling, allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for 1 hour before roasting.

2. Position a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 160°C (fan) / 170°C (conventional). Coarsely chop 4 green garlic stalks and transfer them to a food processor. Pulse until very finely chopped. Add the zest and butter, then pulse until almost smooth. Cut the remaining 4 green garlic stalks in half lengthwise and set aside.

3. Pat the chicken dry again with paper towels to help the butter adhere and achieve a nicely browned skin. Smear the garlic butter all over the chicken. Gently lift the skin on the breast away from the flesh and rub some butter inside.

4. Toss the reserved green garlic and oil in a large frying pan or 33x23 cm baking dish to coat, then season with salt. Tie the chicken legs together using kitchen twine and tuck the wings underneath the back. Place the chicken, breast side up, on top of the garlic in the pan.

5. Roast the chicken for 80–90 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even browning, until the skin is golden and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast registers 68°C (the temperature will reach 74°C as the chicken rests).

6. Allow the chicken to rest for at least 20 minutes and up to 45 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and carve as desired. Serve with the roasted green garlic alongside.

Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.