Herb Roasted Rabbit Recipe: A Rustic Farm-to-Table Favorite

If you’ve never tried roasted rabbit before, you’re in for a flavorful and nutritious treat. This old-fashioned dish is making a comeback among home cooks, homesteaders, and anyone looking to explore beyond traditional meats like chicken or beef. Whether you’re raising rabbits on your homestead or sourcing them locally, this herb-roasted rabbit recipe is a delicious way to enjoy one of the most sustainable and lean proteins available.

In this post, I will walk you through the benefits of cooking rabbit, how to prepare it properly, and provide a detailed, mouthwatering recipe for herb roasted rabbit with vegetables. You’ll also find tips, substitutions, and answers to common questions about cooking rabbit at home.

If you love comforting meals made with rabbit, be sure to try my rabbit pot pie recipe — it’s a cozy, creamy dish that’s perfect for leftovers.

Why Roast Rabbit?

Rabbit meat is an excellent source of lean protein and essential nutrients like B12, iron, and phosphorus. It’s also a sustainable meat option that requires fewer resources to raise compared to beef or pork. Many people describe rabbit as having a flavor and texture similar to chicken, but slightly sweeter and more tender when cooked properly.

Roasting rabbit is one of the best ways to bring out its natural flavor. The slow, even heat of the oven allows the herbs and aromatics to infuse the meat, while keeping it moist and tender.

What Does Roasted Rabbit Taste Like?

Roasted rabbit has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that absorbs marinades and herbs beautifully. The texture is similar to chicken, particularly dark meat, but with a finer grain. When roasted with olive oil, fresh herbs, garlic, and vegetables, the flavor is savory, earthy, and comforting.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Herb Roasted Rabbit

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:

• Rabbit thighs – You can also use a whole rabbit cut into pieces. Thighs tend to be the most tender and flavorful cut.
• Olive oil – For moisture and richness.
• Fresh herbs – Rosemary and thyme add earthy, aromatic flavor.
• Garlic – A must-have in any roast!
• Root vegetables – Carrots and potatoes hold up well to roasting and soak up all the juices.
• Zucchini – Adds a fresh, lighter texture to the dish.
• Chicken broth or white wine – Adds moisture and enhances flavor.
• Butter – For richness and browning.
• Salt and black pepper – Simple seasonings that let the ingredients shine.
• Fresh parsley – For a pop of color and freshness at the end.

Roasted Rabbit Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 rabbit thighs
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, chopped
• 4 medium potatoes, cubed
• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 1 small onion, cut into wedges (optional)
• ½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine
• 2 tablespoons butter, cubed
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions for Roasted Rabbit

1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature allows the rabbit to roast slowly and evenly while keeping the meat moist.

2. Prepare the Herb Marinade

In a small bowl, mix together:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary
• 1 tablespoon chopped thyme
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

3. Season the Rabbit Thighs

Rub the herb mixture all over the rabbit thighs. Let them sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes while you prep the vegetables. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat.

4. Chop the Vegetables

Cut the vegetables and optionally the onion:

• 4 carrots, chopped
• 4 potatoes, cubed
• 2 zucchinis, sliced
• 1 small onion, cut into wedges (optional)

Toss the vegetables with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Roasting Dish

In a large roasting pan or oven-safe baking dish:

• Spread the seasoned vegetables in an even layer.
• Place the rabbit thighs on top.
• Pour ½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine evenly over the dish.
• Dot with 2 tablespoons of butter for added richness.

Roast Covered

Cover the dish tightly with foil and roast in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This keeps the rabbit tender and juicy.

7.Roast Uncovered

Remove the foil and continue roasting for another 25–30 minutes, or until the rabbit is golden and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C).

8. Optional Broil for Crispness

For a golden, slightly crispy finish, broil the dish for 2–3 minutes at the end — just keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

9. Rest and Garnish

Let the roasted rabbit rest for 5 minutes. Then sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add color and freshness.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Rabbit

• Don’t overcook rabbit. It’s a lean meat, so it can dry out quickly. Roasting it covered for most of the time helps lock in moisture.
• Use a meat thermometer. Rabbit is safe to eat at 160°F (71°C), but letting it rest brings it to a perfect finish.
• Wild rabbit vs. farm-raised: Wild rabbit can be gamier and leaner, so consider marinating it longer or brining it beforehand.
• Add variety: Try adding parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even apples for a touch of sweetness.

What to Serve with Roasted Rabbit

This dish is already complete with protein and vegetables, but if you want to round it out even more, here are some great side options:

• Rustic sourdough bread or dinner rolls
• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed green beans or asparagus

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you substitute chicken for rabbit?

Yes! If rabbit isn’t available, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs make a good substitute in this recipe. However, you’ll miss the uniquely tender texture and mild sweetness of roasted rabbit.

Where can I buy rabbit meat?

You can often find rabbit meat at specialty butcher shops pr farmer’s markets. I encourage other homesteaders to also raise meat rabbits themselves for self-sufficiency.

Do you need to marinate rabbit before roasting?

Marinating helps tenderize and flavor the meat. While this recipe includes a quick herb rub, you can also marinate rabbit overnight in olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs for even deeper flavor.

A Homestead Favorite

At The Stone Hearth Farmhouse, roasted rabbit is one of our go-to meals during the cooler months. It’s warm, filling, and brings the whole family around the table with its inviting aroma and wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re new to rabbit meat or a seasoned homesteader looking for a fresh take, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your farmhouse kitchen.

More Rabbit Recipes!

Final Thoughts

Roasting rabbit at home is easier than you might think—and incredibly rewarding. With just a few simple ingredients and some fresh herbs, you can create a nourishing meal for your family. Give this roasted rabbit recipe a try and enjoy the comfort and satisfaction of real, slow-cooked food.

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