Jamie Oliver’s Rosemary Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the best of fresh herbs, garlic, and perfectly roasted chicken. Infused with the earthy aroma of rosemary, this dish is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic option for a comforting meal.
Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try
- Easy to prepare: Requires minimal ingredients and effort.
- Rich in flavor: The combination of rosemary, garlic, and lemon enhances the taste.
- Perfectly juicy chicken: The roasting method locks in moisture.
- Versatile: Can be served with various side dishes.
- Healthy and wholesome: Made with natural ingredients and packed with protein.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Rosemary Chicken?
Rosemary Chicken is a classic dish featuring chicken infused with fresh rosemary, garlic, and olive oil, then roasted or pan-seared to perfection. The dish is simple yet deeply aromatic, making it a go-to meal for any occasion.
Jamie Oliver Rosemary Chicken Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Rosemary Chicken
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the marinade all over the chicken and let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Heat a large oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- Place the chicken skin-side down in the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and sear for another 2 minutes.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken
- Transfer the pan to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Rosemary Chicken
- Roasted potatoes: A classic, crispy side.
- Steamed vegetables: Light and healthy addition.
- Garlic bread: Adds a delicious crunch.
- Rice pilaf: Complements the herb-infused flavors.
- Fresh salad: A refreshing balance to the dish.
Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Rosemary Chicken
- Use fresh rosemary: It provides the best aroma and flavor.
- Marinate longer: Enhances the depth of taste.
- Crisp the skin: Searing first before roasting locks in moisture.
- Check internal temperature: Ensures perfectly cooked chicken.
- Let it rest: Helps retain juiciness when slicing.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Rosemary Chicken
- Grilled version: Cook over medium heat on the grill for a smoky touch.
- Creamy rosemary chicken: Add a splash of cream to make a rich sauce.
- Lemon garlic rosemary chicken: Increase the lemon juice and garlic for extra zest.
- Rosemary chicken with mushrooms: Add sautéed mushrooms for a hearty dish.
- Slow-cooked rosemary chicken: Cook in a slow cooker for a tender, fall-apart texture.
How to Store Leftovers Jamie Oliver Rosemary Chicken?
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Keeps well in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Jamie Oliver Rosemary Chicken?
- In the oven: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes until heated through.
- In the microwave: Heat in short intervals to prevent drying out.
Nutrition Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
FAQs
Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh for rosemary chicken?
Yes, you can use dried rosemary if fresh is not available. Use about half the amount of dried rosemary since it has a more concentrated flavor.
What side dishes go well with rosemary chicken?
Rosemary chicken pairs well with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, garlic bread, rice pilaf, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
How do I ensure my rosemary chicken is juicy?
Marinating the chicken for at least 15 minutes helps infuse flavor and keep it moist. Searing the chicken before roasting also locks in the juices, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
Can I cook rosemary chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook rosemary chicken in a slow cooker. Combine the ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Rosemary Chicken is a delicious, aromatic dish that’s easy to make yet full of rich flavors. Whether for a simple weeknight meal or a special gathering, this dish never disappoints. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of herbs and juicy chicken!
Print
Jamie Oliver Rosemary Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: British
Description
Jamie Oliver’s Rosemary Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the best of fresh herbs, garlic, and perfectly roasted chicken. Infused with the earthy aroma of rosemary, this dish is juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic option for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
-
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts
-
- 2 tbsp olive oil
-
- 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped
-
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
-
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
-
- 1 tsp sea salt
-
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
-
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
-
- Rub the marinade all over the chicken and let it sit for at least 15 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
-
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
-
- Heat a large oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
-
- Place the chicken skin-side down in the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
-
- Flip the chicken and sear for another 2 minutes.
Step 4: Roast the Chicken
-
- Transfer the pan to the oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked.
-
- Check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
-
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.