Welcome to the world of Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken, a sumptuous dish that fuses the zesty brightness of lemons with aromatic spices to create a low-carb meal packed with flavor. If you’re looking for a healthy dinner option that is both satisfying and easy to prepare, this roasted chicken recipe is your answer. Perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside, this dish is ideal for family dinners, meal prepping, or hosting dinner parties.
Why You’ll Love This Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken
- Perfect for Keto Diet: Deliciously satisfying while keeping your carb count low.
- Quick and Easy: Only 15 minutes of prep time, making it accessible even for beginner cooks.
- Packed with Flavor: Lemon and pepper seasonings bring a vibrant twist to traditional roasted chicken.
- Versatile Meal Prep Option: Make ahead of time for easy weeknight dinners or power lunches.
- Healthy and Nourishing: High in protein and full of essential nutrients.
Ingredients for Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds): Opt for pasture-raised for the best quality.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Can be substituted with melted butter or avocado oil.
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning: Look for a sugar-free version or make your own.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Adds a depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Sea salt or kosher salt enhances overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for optimal aroma.
- 2 lemons, sliced: Provides additional citrus kick.
- Fresh herbs (rosemary or thyme): Optional for garnish, adds a fragrant finish.
For a gluten-free option, ensure that the seasoning mix is free of any hidden wheat products.
How to Make Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken – Step by Step
Preparing the Chicken
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a hot environment for roasting.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry using paper towels to achieve a crispy skin.
Step 3: Mix the Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor.
Assembling and Cooking
Step 5: Add Lemons
- Place lemon slices inside the cavity and around the chicken in the roasting pan.
Step 6: Position the Chicken
- Place the chicken breast-side up on a rack in the roasting pan for even cooking.
Step 7: Roasting
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). For extra crispy texture, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Finishing Touches
Step 8: Rest and Serve
- Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving, which helps to retain juices. Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken Pro Tips for Making the Best Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken
- Can I make Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken ahead of time? Absolutely! Prep the chicken in advance, season it, and keep it refrigerated until ready to roast.
- What is the secret to the best roasted chicken? Patting the chicken dry and ensuring a well-seasoned cavity are keys to a flavorful and crispy skin.
- Substitutions: If you prefer, swap olive oil with avocado oil for a slightly different flavor profile.
Best Ways to Serve Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken
The best way to serve Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken is with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad to balance the flavors. Enhance your meal with a crisp Chardonnay that complements the citrusy notes. For a carb-free pairing, check out our cauliflower rice recipe for a fantastic accompaniment.
Nutritional Information for Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
- Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 18g
This Keto dinner is also an excellent source of Vitamin C and supports a healthy low-carb lifestyle.
Storage & Leftovers
To store, place any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For freezing, wrap pieces tightly, and they will last for up to 3 months. When reheating, re-cover the chicken and warm in an oven set to 325°F (163°C) until heated through, to maintain moisture and flavor.
4 FAQs for Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken
- Can I freeze Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken? Yes, once cooled, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- What can I use instead of lemon pepper seasoning? Create your own blend using dried lemon peel, black pepper, and salt.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, as long as you confirm all natural seasonings contain no wheat additives.
- What’s the best cut to use if not using a whole chicken? Try chicken thighs or breast cuts using the same seasoning approach.
Related Recipes for Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken
Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken
- Total Time: 90
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: Keto
Description
Keto Lemon Pepper Roasted Chicken is a deliciously seasoned dish that brings vibrant citrus flavors to a classic roasted chicken.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 pounds)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 lemons, sliced
- Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy skin.
- In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get it under the skin and inside the cavity.
- Place the lemon slices inside the cavity of the chicken and around it in the roasting pan.
- Place the chicken breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is patted dry for extra crispy skin.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 75
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of whole chicken
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Keto, Roasted Chicken, Lemon Pepper, Low Carb, Healthy Recipes, Cooking At Home, Meal Prep, Gluten Free, Citrus Flavors, Chicken Dinner