Roasted chicken is a classic dish that never goes out of style, but sometimes it’s nice to switch things up and add a new twist to an old favorite. Enter Meyer lemon mayonnaise – a tangy and zesty condiment that pairs perfectly with the rich and savory flavors of roasted chicken.
What is Meyer Lemon?
Meyer lemons are a cross between a lemon and a mandarin orange, resulting in a sweeter and less acidic flavor than traditional lemons. They are typically in season from December to May and can be found at many grocery stores and farmer’s markets.
Roasting the Chicken
To make this delicious dish, start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Rinse and pat dry a whole chicken, and season it generously with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
While the chicken is roasting, you can prepare the Meyer lemon mayonnaise.
Meyer Lemon Mayonnaise
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon finely grated Meyer lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Meyer lemon juice, zest, and chives.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve the chicken with a dollop of Meyer lemon mayonnaise on the side.
Variations
There are many ways to customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:
- Add garlic: Crush a few garlic cloves and add them to the roasting pan with the chicken for a flavorful twist.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to add depth and complexity to the dish.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the Meyer lemon mayonnaise for a spicy kick.
- Swap the chicken: Try this recipe with roasted turkey or even a whole roasted cauliflower for a vegetarian option.
Benefits of Roasted Chicken
Roasted chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles and other tissues in the body. It also contains important nutrients such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. In addition, chicken is low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for those watching their weight.
Conclusion
Roasted chicken with Meyer lemon mayonnaise is a simple yet delicious dish that’s sure to impress. With its tangy and zesty flavors, Meyer lemon mayonnaise adds a new dimension to the classic roasted chicken recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
