Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

Cut of Chicken:

The type of chicken used for roasting can significantly impact the flavor and texture of the dish, making the choice of cut a crucial aspect of the recipe.

In this case, we recommend using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces to ensure maximum flavor absorption from the marinade and juices released during cooking. The boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs often used in other recipes will not provide the same depth of flavor and tender texture as a well-roasted piece of meat.

For this Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe, we suggest cutting the chicken into large pieces that can be easily coated with the marinade. This will help to distribute the flavors evenly throughout the dish. Some popular cuts for this recipe include:

• Bone-in chicken thighs
• Chicken drumsticks
• Chicken legs, bone-in and skin-on
• Cross-cut chicken breasts (with both the white meat and dark meat attached)

Regardless of which cut you choose to use, ensure that it is fresh and has not been previously frozen. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of the chicken as it cooks.

1 whole chicken

The star of our recipe is undoubtedly the whole chicken, which serves as the base for this aromatic and flavorful dish. When selecting a whole chicken for roasting, it’s essential to choose one that is fresh and of high quality.

A good rule of thumb is to look for a chicken that weighs between 3 to 4 pounds (1.36 to 1.81 kilograms). This size will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and has enough meat to serve 4-6 people, depending on serving sizes.

When handling the chicken, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the bird. It’s also a good idea to pat the chicken dry with paper towels inside and out, removing any excess moisture that may cause the skin to steam instead of crisp up during roasting.

The whole chicken can be purchased from most supermarkets or butcher shops. When selecting a store-bought chicken, look for one that has been properly labeled with its ingredients and nutritional information.

If you’re using a free-range or organic chicken, be sure to follow the same guidelines as above, ensuring that the bird is fresh and of high quality.

It’s worth noting that the type of chicken used in this recipe can affect the final flavor and texture. For example, a heritage breed chicken may have a more robust and intense flavor than a commercial chicken.

Regardless of the type or origin of the chicken, it’s essential to handle and store it safely to prevent foodborne illness. Always store raw poultry at 40°F (4°C) or below, and cook it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Sauces and Marinades:

The art of cooking lies not only in the techniques used to prepare a dish but also in the careful selection and combination of ingredients. When it comes to the Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe, understanding the various components that come together to create its signature flavor is essential.

Ingredients are the building blocks of any recipe. In this context, they can be broadly classified into two categories – main ingredients (chicken breast) and complementary ingredients (lemon balm, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper). The former provides the base while the latter adds depth to the dish.

Sauces and marinades serve distinct purposes in cooking. A sauce typically enhances the flavor of a dish after it’s cooked, whereas a marinade is used beforehand to tenderize food and infuse flavors that get absorbed during the cooking process. In the case of the Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe, both elements play crucial roles.

The use of lemon balm in this recipe not only adds a unique flavor but also provides health benefits due to its high content of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. Similarly, garlic is known for its antimicrobial properties and contributes to the overall taste and aroma of the dish.

Olive oil serves multiple purposes here – it helps in marinating the chicken by preventing it from drying out, and also aids in achieving a crispy exterior when roasted. The ratio of olive oil to other ingredients in the marinade is critical, as excessive use can make the dish overly greasy.

Salt and pepper are fundamental seasonings that elevate the flavors of all ingredients without overpowering them. They should be used judiciously to bring out the best qualities of each component.

The combination of these ingredients, sauces, and marinades comes together in perfect harmony when following the Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe. Each component complements the others, resulting in a dish that’s greater than its individual parts.

1/4 cup olive oil

Olive oil is one of the key ingredients used to enhance the flavor and moisture content of the roasted lemon balm chicken recipe.

The use of olive oil is essential in this recipe as it helps to bring out the natural flavors of the other ingredients, particularly the herbs and spices that are commonly associated with Mediterranean cuisine.

One-quarter cup of olive oil may seem like a relatively small amount, but it’s actually sufficient for marinating and roasting a chicken of average size, such as 2-3 pounds.

The mild flavor of olive oil complements the brightness of the lemon juice and zest, while also adding a hint of bitterness to balance out the dish.

In addition to its culinary uses, olive oil is also an excellent choice for cooking because it has a relatively high smoke point, meaning that it can be heated to high temperatures without breaking down or losing its flavor and nutritional properties.

The health benefits of using olive oil are well-documented, with research showing that it contains a range of beneficial compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on the body.

For this particular recipe, it’s essential to choose an extra-virgin olive oil that has a rich, fruity flavor and a smooth texture. This will ensure that the chicken is infused with the full depth of flavor that olive oil has to offer.

To incorporate the olive oil into the recipe, simply rub the chicken all over with the oil, making sure to get some under the skin as well. Then, let it sit for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before roasting in the oven.

2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is an essential component of many culinary creations, and when it comes to this Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe, 2 tablespoons are a perfect starting point.

The acidity and brightness that freshly squeezed lemon juice provides balance out the rich flavors of the roasted chicken, while also helping to bring all the other ingredients together in harmony.

When using fresh lemons for this recipe, be sure to choose ones that are heavy for their size and have a sweet, slightly tart aroma – these will yield the best flavor and juiciness.

To extract 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice, simply cut one medium-sized lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a bowl or measuring cup using either a manual or electric citrus squeezer, or even just your hands – though be careful not to get any seeds in there!

Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth if necessary to remove any remaining pulp or sediment for a clearer, more refined liquid.

Once you have your freshly squeezed lemon juice ready, you can combine it with other ingredients like olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices to create a marinade for the chicken, or use it as a finishing touch right before serving – either way, its bright, citrusy flavor is sure to elevate this Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe to new heights!

Aromatics:

The ingredients used in this recipe are quite straightforward and require minimal preparation to create a flavorful roasted lemon balm chicken dish.

For the chicken, you will need 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference for leaner or darker meat. It is essential to choose fresh chicken with no signs of discoloration and a pleasant, neutral smell.

The aromatics play a significant role in this recipe, adding depth and warmth to the dish. You will need 3-4 cloves of garlic, peeled but not minced, as they will be roasted along with the rest of the ingredients. Freshly ground black pepper is also necessary to add a subtle yet essential kick to each bite.

The lemon balm, the star of this recipe, should be plump and fragrant. A small bunch of 10-15 sprigs will provide adequate flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. You can trim any woody stems or bruised leaves before using.

Additional seasonings include 2 tablespoons of olive oil to help the chicken brown evenly and prevent it from drying out during cooking, as well as salt to balance the flavors and enhance texture.

2 cloves garlic, minced

The recipe for Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken calls for a specific amount and preparation method for the ingredient 2 cloves garlic, minced.

Firstly, let’s understand what “minced” means in the context of ingredients. Minced refers to small pieces of an ingredient that are finely chopped, typically with a sharp knife or a tool designed specifically for mincing.

In this case, we’re instructed to use 2 cloves garlic, which is likely referring to 2 individual bulb segments of the garlic plant. Each clove has a compact white bud surrounded by a papery skin that encloses the edible inner core.

To properly mince the garlic, you should peel each clove and chop it finely, either using a chef’s knife or a garlic press. The goal is to break down the cloves into small pieces that are uniform in size, with no large chunks or bits left intact.

Minced garlic adds an incredible depth of flavor to the Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken dish. When roasted, it caramelizes and becomes sweet and nutty, pairing beautifully with the bright citrus notes from the lemon balm.

Using 2 cloves of minced garlic may seem like a small amount, but trust that it will be enough to add the right balance of savory flavor without overpowering the dish. Feel free to adjust the amount to your taste if you prefer a stronger or milder garlic presence in the recipe.

The key is to distribute the minced garlic evenly throughout the chicken and lemon balm mixture, ensuring each bite captures the essence of this aromatic combination.

1 tsp dried thyme

In the Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe, 1 tsp dried thyme is used as an ingredient to add a savory and herbaceous flavor to the dish.

The use of dried thyme in this recipe allows for a concentrated flavor that is perfect for complementing the bright and citrusy taste of lemon balm and the richness of the chicken.

Here are some key characteristics of dried thyme:

• Fragrance: Dried thyme has a pungent, earthy aroma that is often associated with herb gardens.

• Flavor: Thyme is known for its savory and slightly minty flavor that pairs well with meats, soups, and sauces.

• Texture: Dried thyme has a delicate and crumbly texture that adds depth to dishes without overpowering the other ingredients.

The benefits of using dried thyme in this recipe include:

• Easy to store: Dried thyme can be stored for a long time and is easily accessible when needed.

• Convenient: Using dried thyme eliminates the need to fresh thyme, which can be messy and prone to spoilage.

• Flavor consistency: Dried thyme provides a consistent flavor that won’t vary depending on the freshness or quality of the herb.

Incorporating dried thyme into the Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe is a great way to add depth and complexity to the dish while maintaining its bright and citrusy flavors.

Instructions

Preliminary Steps:

To prepare a delicious roasted lemon balm chicken recipe, it’s essential to follow these preliminary steps:

1. Gather all the necessary ingredients: Make sure you have all the required components for the dish, including fresh lemon balm leaves, boneless and skinless chicken breast or thighs, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, lemon juice, honey, and any other desired herbs or spices.

2. Clean and prepare the lemon balm leaves: Rinse the lemon balm leaves in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from affecting the dish’s flavor.

3. Preheat the oven: Set the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) for optimal roasting results. Ensure the oven is preheated before proceeding with the recipe.

4. Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs or spices. Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breast or thighs to add flavor.

Once these preliminary steps are complete, you can proceed with marinating the chicken in your preferred marinade (which may include ingredients like lemon juice and honey), then roasting it in the oven until cooked through.

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)

To start cooking your Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken, it’s essential to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your oven reaches the optimal temperature for even cooking and browning of the chicken.

The exact temperature you’re aiming for is 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius on the centigrade scale. This high heat will help to caramelize the skin of the chicken, locking in juices and flavors as it cooks.

While preheating your oven, make sure to adjust the racks inside to accommodate a large roasting pan or dish that can fit your lemon balm chicken. Ensure that there’s enough clearance on all sides for air to circulate freely, promoting even heat distribution and preventing steaming instead of roasting.

Preheating time may vary depending on your oven model; however, most modern ovens take around 10-15 minutes to reach the desired temperature when set at 400°F (200°C). Meanwhile, prepare your chicken by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of sugar on its surface.

Once your oven is preheated and ready for use, carefully place your prepared lemon balm chicken into the roasting pan or dish. Ensure it’s centered and evenly spaced from the edges to allow for even cooking on all sides.

Close the oven door gently but firmly, making sure not to leave any gaps that might compromise the temperature inside. You’re now ready to proceed with the next steps in your Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe, including adding aromatics and other ingredients to enhance the flavors of the dish.

Cooking the Chicken:

To prepare this mouth-watering Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe, you’ll need to follow these step-by-step instructions carefully.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Oven

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While waiting for the oven to heat up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. This will make cleanup easier after cooking.

Step 2: Season and Truss the Chicken

Next, remove any giblets from the chicken cavity, and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil to prevent sticking, then season with salt, pepper, and your desired amount of dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary.

Step 3: Mix Lemon Balm Marinade

In a medium bowl, combine lemon zest, chopped fresh lemon balm leaves (about 1/4 cup), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, and grated lemon zest.

Step 4: Marinate and Coat the Chicken

In a large ziplock bag or a non-reactive container, combine the chicken and marinade mixture. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate. When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade and gently pat it dry with paper towels.

Step 5: Prepare Lemon Balm Filling and Stuffing

In a small bowl, combine chopped fresh lemon balm leaves (about 1/4 cup), minced garlic, chopped onion, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.

Step 6: Assemble Chicken for Roasting

Stuff the lemon balm filling into the chicken cavity through the neck opening. Close the neck skin by tying it shut with kitchen twine or tucking under the breast.

Step 7: Place in Oven and Roast

Place the trussed chicken on the prepared baking sheet, breast side up. Drizzle the tops of the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle a pinch of salt. Roast for about 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let it rest before carving.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Cut into slices, serve hot and garnished with fresh lemon balm leaves, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken!

Season with salt and pepper

To ensure that your roasted lemon balm chicken turns out deliciously flavorful, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully. First and foremost, you need to prepare the ingredients before starting the cooking process.

For this recipe, you’ll require 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, fresh lemon balm leaves, salt, pepper, olive oil, garlic cloves, lemon juice, honey, and grated Parmesan cheese. You might also want to have some chopped fresh parsley or thyme on hand for garnish.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is a crucial step as it will help the chicken cook evenly and at the right temperature. While waiting for the oven to preheat, prepare the lemon balm leaves by rinsing them under cold running water and patting them dry with paper towels.

Next, take out your mixing bowl and combine minced garlic, salt, and pepper in it. This is an important step as you’ll be rubbing the chicken with this mixture later on, so make sure to get a good balance of flavors. Add olive oil to the bowl and mix well until you have a smooth paste.

Place the chicken breasts or thighs in the bowl and coat them evenly with the garlic-salt-pepper mixture. This will help bring out the flavor of the chicken and make it tender and juicy.

Mix the lemon juice, honey, and grated Parmesan cheese together in a separate small bowl. This will be used as a marinade for the chicken once you’ve coated it with the garlic-salt-pepper mixture.

Now it’s time to roast the chicken! Place the coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some space between each piece for even cooking. Drizzle the lemon-honey-Parmesan marinade over the chicken and sprinkle fresh lemon balm leaves on top of each piece.

Roast the chicken in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes or until it’s cooked through. You can check if the chicken is done by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part; it should read at least 165°F (74°C).

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme and serve hot.

Mix lemon juice and olive oil in a small bowl

To create the perfect sauce for our Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken, we will be combining lemon juice and olive oil.

This process involves several simple steps:

1. First, ensure you have a clean and dry workspace to prevent any accidents or contamination of the ingredients.

2. Gather all necessary utensils, such as a spoon or small whisk for mixing.

3. Open a fresh bottle of lemon juice. Be cautious when handling citrus juices, as they can be quite acidic and cause skin irritation in some individuals.

Next, measure the correct proportion of lemon juice to olive oil based on your preference for sauce consistency and flavor balance. The general ratio is 1 part lemon juice to 3 parts olive oil. You may adjust this to suit your taste buds.

For a basic mixture, use:

• 2 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 6 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil (you can always adjust the amount based on your preference)

To mix, slowly pour the olive oil into the bowl with the lemon juice. Hold back the spoon or whisk at an angle to prevent splashing.

Continue gently mixing until both ingredients are fully incorporated and the sauce has a uniform consistency. You might observe some separation initially; however, this will mostly disappear once you refrigerate the mixture for at least 10-15 minutes before use.

The final step is to store your homemade lemon balm dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to use with the Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe. It’s always a good idea to label your containers so you can easily identify what they contain and when they were prepared, which will help you keep track of the freshness of the ingredients.

Brush the mixture over the chicken

To create the flavorful and aromatic dish of roasted lemon balm chicken, you will first need to prepare the marinade that coats the chicken with its essence.

The key to this recipe lies in blending together a delicate combination of ingredients that will give your meal an unmistakable zing without overpowering it. The starting point is to make a mixture consisting of two cloves of minced garlic, one tablespoon of freshly chopped lemon zest, and a quarter cup of fresh lemon balm leaves, finely chopped.

These aromatic components form the foundation of our marinade. Next, we add in one-half cup of olive oil, which not only serves as a carrier for these flavors but also provides moisture to keep the chicken juicy during the roasting process.

To create the right balance, you will need one tablespoon of honey and two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. The sweetness from the honey should be offset by the acidity from the lemon juice.

A pinch of salt is then added to bring out all the flavors, while a few grinds of black pepper add depth to the dish without overpowering it.

Now that our marinade is ready, we can proceed with applying it to the chicken. Place each piece of chicken into a shallow dish or tray and brush the mixture over the chicken in an even layer.

Gently rub the marinade all over the chicken, making sure every surface is coated evenly. You should see a vibrant green hue from the lemon balm leaves as they start to infuse their flavor into the meat.

Preparation of Roasted Lemon Balm

Lemon Balm Preparation:

Lemon balm is a versatile herb that can be used to add flavor and aroma to various dishes, including the popular Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe. To prepare roasted lemon balm, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh lemon balm leaves
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

To prepare roasted lemon balm, follow these steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This temperature will help to dry out the herb without burning it.

Step 2: Prepare the Lemon Balm

Wash and dry the lemon balm leaves. Remove any stems or woody parts, as they can be bitter.

Step 3: Mix with Oil and Seasonings

In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, honey or sugar, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will help to enhance the flavor of the lemon balm.

Step 4: Roast the Lemon Balm

Place the lemon balm leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the oil and seasoning mixture over the lemon balm, making sure they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Dry the Lemon Balm

Roast the lemon balm in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of dryness. You can check on it periodically to avoid over-drying.

Step 6: Store the Roasted Lemon Balm

Once the lemon balm is roasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.

The roasted lemon balm can be used as a garnish or added to recipes like soups, salads, and sauces. In the context of the Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe, it will add a fragrant and citrusy flavor to the dish.

Choose 1/4 cup fresh lemon balm leaves

To prepare roasted lemon balm for the Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken recipe, you will need to start by harvesting a few sprigs of fresh lemon balm leaves from your herb garden or purchase them from a local market.

Select one-quarter cup of fresh lemon balm leaves, making sure they are free of any signs of wilting or damage. You can identify the fresh leaves by their vibrant green color and the subtle citrus scent that they emit when crushed.

Next, gently wash the selected lemon balm leaves with cold water to remove any dirt, debris, or other contaminants. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture and prevent bacterial growth.

Rinse the leaves under cold running water again for an additional 10 seconds to ensure they are thoroughly cleaned.

After cleaning and drying the lemon balm leaves, use your fingers or kitchen shears to tear the leaves into smaller pieces. This will help them roast evenly and infuse their flavor into the chicken more effectively.

The torn lemon balm leaves should now be ready for roasting with the chicken as instructed in the recipe. Remember to adjust the amount of lemon balm used according to your personal preference for its citrus flavor and aroma.

Chop the leaves into smaller pieces

To begin preparing roasted lemon balm for the Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe, start by washing the fresh leaves thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.

Next, pat the lemon balm dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial in preventing sogginess and promoting even roasting.

Gather a handful of lemon balm leaves and place them on a cutting board. For this recipe, you’ll want to use about 2-3 sprigs or roughly 1/4 cup of chopped fresh lemon balm leaves.

Hold the stem of each leaf firmly in one hand and with a sharp knife, gently slice through the leaf from the top to the bottom, using a gentle sawing motion. This will help prevent tearing the delicate leaves.

Continue chopping the leaves into smaller pieces until you achieve a uniform consistency. The size of the pieces may vary depending on your preference for texture in the finished dish.

For this recipe, aim to chop the lemon balm into small, almost powder-like fragments that will distribute evenly throughout the chicken and sauce.

To make it easier to handle and prevent bruising the leaves, try using a herb chopper or a sharp chef’s knife to finely mince the chopped leaves.

Assembly and Serving:

To prepare the dish, it’s crucial to start by preparing the ingredients needed for the roasted lemon balm chicken recipe. The primary components include 4 boneless and skinless chicken breasts, fresh lemon balm leaves, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and paprika.

The next step involves preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C). This sets the stage for roasting the chicken to perfection. While the oven is heating up, take time to prepare the lemon balm by washing it thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities.

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to ensure even cooking. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder for added flavor. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space in between each breast to allow air to circulate during roasting.

Mix together olive oil and dried thyme in a bowl. Brush this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated. Sprinkle paprika over the top of each breast for an extra burst of flavor.

Next, place a few sprigs of fresh lemon balm on top of each chicken breast. This will allow the fragrance and taste of the lemon balm to infuse into the chicken during roasting. You can adjust the amount of lemon balm according to your personal preference.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The exact cooking time might vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken breasts. It’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.

Once the chicken is done roasting, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. During this time, the juices will redistribute within the chicken, making it even more tender and flavorful.

Finally, serve the roasted lemon balm chicken hot with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. Enjoy the delicious combination of the herbal flavors from the lemon balm and the savory taste of the roasted chicken!

Spread chopped lemon balm over the chicken

To prepare roasted lemon balm to be used as a flavoring agent for chicken, start by gathering the necessary ingredients and tools.

You’ll need fresh lemon balm leaves, olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder (optional), and any other desired herbs or spices.

First, rinse the lemon balm leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture from interfering with the roasting process.

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). You can also add other herbs or spices of your choice, such as dried thyme or rosemary, to give the lemon balm an extra boost of flavor.

Add the chopped lemon balm leaves to the bowl and toss them in the oil mixture until they’re evenly coated. This will help the flavors penetrate deep into the leaves and ensure that they roast well.

Transfer the coated lemon balm leaves to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spreading them out in a single layer. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can overlap some of the leaves slightly.

Roast the lemon balm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s dry and fragrant. You may want to check on the leaves every few minutes to ensure that they don’t burn or overcook.

Once the lemon balm is roasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. This will help prevent any moisture from building up and making the leaves soggy.

Now your roasted lemon balm is ready to use as a flavoring agent for chicken or other dishes. Simply chop it finely and sprinkle it over your food, or mix it into marinades or sauces for added depth of flavor.

Serve hot

To prepare roasted lemon balm for use in the Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe, start by rinsing a handful of fresh lemon balm leaves under cold water to remove any dirt or debris.

Gently pat the leaves dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture and prevent them from steaming instead of roasting.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), as this will help to enhance the aromatic properties of the lemon balm and add depth to its flavor.

Rinse a small bowl or plate with water, and then place the damp leaves in it. This step is crucial in preventing the leaves from drying out during the roasting process.

Next, drizzle 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over the lemon balm leaves. You can adjust the amount to your liking, but be sure not to overpower the delicate flavor of the herb with too much oil.

Season the leaves with a pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper to bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to their flavor.

Toss the lemon balm gently to ensure that the leaves are evenly coated with the olive oil, salt, and pepper mixture.

Spread the lemon balm out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help the leaves roast evenly and prevent them from steaming instead of roasting.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the lemon balm for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of fragrancy and flavor.

Once the lemon balm is done roasting, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. You can then chop it into smaller pieces or use it as a garnish for your Roasted Lemon Balm Chicken Recipe.

To serve hot, place the roasted chicken on a platter or individual plates, and spoon some of the roasted lemon balm over the top. You can also sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, around the plate to add color and freshness to the dish.