Herb-roasted whole chicken seasoned with fresh rosemary and thyme is a healthy, high protein family dinner. This clean eats classic yields crispy skin, juicy meat, and makes excellent meal prep leftovers.
Preheat oven to 425°F. Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels, including inside the cavity, to ensure crisp skin.
Carefully loosen the skin over the chicken breasts and thighs, then rub 1 tbsp olive oil, the rosemary, and thyme underneath and over the exterior of the skin.
Stuff the cavity with the whole lemon (halved) and garlic cloves to infuse moisture and aromatics.
Brush remaining olive oil over the entire chicken. Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper, making sure to coat both the skin and inside the cavity.
Place chicken breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for 1 hour 10 minutes, rotating the pan halfway for even browning. The chicken is done when a thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F.
Let the chicken rest, loosely tented with foil, for 10–15 minutes before carving to preserve juiciness.