Are you craving a special dinner that can impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen? Let me introduce you to Ruth’s Chris–Style Herb-Roasted Chicken with Pan Jus. This succulent roasted chicken is bursting with fresh herbs and rich flavors, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering. The dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience, evoking the upscale charm of a fine dining restaurant—all in the comfort of your home.

Why you’ll love this dish

There are countless reasons to whip up this herb-roasted chicken at home. First and foremost, it’s a classic recipe that marries simplicity with sophistication. The process is quite straightforward, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Plus, when roasted, the skin becomes delectably crisp while the meat remains juicy and tender.

This chicken not only shines as a main dish but also serves as a stunning centerpiece for any dining table. Imagine the smiles on your family’s faces when they savor this flavorful feast!

"This chicken recipe transformed our family dinner into something special. The herb butter under the skin made every bite juicy and flavorful!" – A satisfied home cook

The cooking process explained

Ready to savor Ruth’s Chris–Style Herb-Roasted Chicken with Pan Jus? This recipe unfolds in a few simple steps, perfectly guiding you from preparation to serving. Preheating the oven and carefully seasoning the chicken are key to achieving that mouthwatering result. You’ll mix fresh herbs with butter and olive oil, which are then lovingly tucked under the chicken skin to infuse every bite with flavor. After roasting and resting, you’ll create a luscious pan jus to complement your dish beautifully.

What you’ll need

To make this flavorful herb-roasted chicken, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, about 4–5 lbs
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 small onion, quartered
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)

If you’re in a pinch, feel free to swap out fresh herbs for dried alternatives—just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use less.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Make sure that chicken is patted dry with paper towels—this ensures a crispy skin!
2. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently loosen the chicken skin over the breasts and carefully slide half of your herb butter underneath. Rub the remaining butter on the outside.
4. Stuff the cavity with the lemon halves and onion quarters, enhancing the flavor from within.
5. Place the chicken breast-side up on a rack in your roasting pan.
6. Roast for 55–65 minutes, uncovered, until it’s golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Once done, let it rest for about 10 minutes—this helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
8. For the pan jus, place your roasting pan on medium heat. Add chicken broth and white wine, scraping up those delicious bits stuck to the pan. Simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
9. Carve the chicken, drizzling the pan jus generously over the top before serving.

How to serve it

The presentation can elevate your dining experience. Consider serving the herb-roasted chicken on a beautiful platter with fresh herbs sprinkled around, or carve it into pieces and arrange it with colorful seasonal vegetables. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or a refreshing garden salad to round out the meal.

Storage and reheating tips

Have leftovers? No problem! To keep your herb-roasted chicken fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken for up to 2 months. Always ensure that the chicken is fully cooled before refrigerating or freezing it. When reheating, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F to enjoy it safely.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few tips that will make your cooking journey even smoother:

• Use a meat thermometer: Investing in a good meat thermometer ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked without guessing.
• Butter under the skin: Loosening the skin can be tricky; use your fingers gently so as not to tear it.
• Let it rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after roasting ensures that it stays moist and retains all those flavorful juices.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? You can switch up the flavors in this classic recipe. Try using different herbs like sage or tarragon for a unique spin. If you’re looking for a Mediterranean vibe, consider stuffing the cavity with garlic cloves and olives instead of lemon and onion.

Common questions

How long does this recipe take to prepare?
Preparation and cooking will take about 1.5 hours, but the payoff is well worth it!

Can I use chicken parts instead of a whole chicken?
Absolutely! You can roast chicken breasts or thighs; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it safe to store and reheat leftovers?
Yes, as long as you follow food safety guidelines and ensure the chicken is reheated to 165°F. Make sure to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Transform your dining experience with this unforgettable Ruth’s Chris–Style Herb-Roasted Chicken with Pan Jus and enjoy the enticing flavors and delightful aromas right from your own kitchen!