Okay, friends, let’s talk about chicken. Not just any chicken, but all chickens.theIna Garten’s Roast Chicken isn’t just a recipe. What are some of the best kitchen staples, a dinner party showstopper, and weeknight savior all rolled into one? Golden bird. If you’re anything like me, you have probably tried a million different roast chicken recipes, each one different. What is the best thing that ever happened to you? “But trust me on this one, ditch the rest. This one delivers. Is Julia Child’s famous roast chicken any better? The crispy skin, the juicy meat, and the herb-infused aroma that fills your entire house…it’s pure bliss. What is comfort food magic? I remember the first time I made this – my husband literally did a happy dance!
What is Ina Garten’s Roast Chicken?
What exactly is the meaning of the termis Ina Garten‘s Roast Chicken? Think of it as the quintessential roast chicken, elevated to its absolute best. It’s essentially a whole chicken, expertly seasoned with herbs, aromatics, and a generous dose of butter, then roasted to golden-brown perfection. It’s not fussy, it’s not complicated, and it doesn’t require any fancy techniques. What sets it apart is the quality of the ingredients and Ina’s incredibly straightforward, no-nonsense approach. It’s about letting the natural flavors of the chicken shine through, enhanced by simple, fresh ingredients. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like a culinary genius, even if you’re just starting out in the kitchen. Seriously, it’s foolproof!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Let me count the ways!flavorIs this world out of the world? I love the combination of fresh herbs (thyme and rosemary are my personal favorites), lemon, and garlic. What are some of the best ways to create an intoxicating aroma The skin crisps up beautifully, while the meat stays incredibly moist and tender. My kids actually cheer when they see this on the table.simplicity is another huge win. It requires minimal prep time, which is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. You basically just rub the chicken with herbs and butter, stick it in the oven, and let it do its thing. Seriously, could it be easier? And let’s not forget the cost-efficiency. Roasting a whole chicken is a surprisingly affordable way to feed a crowd. Plus, you can use the leftovers in so many different ways (more on that later!). What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it with roasted vegetables, Mashed Potatoes, a simple salad, or even shred the Chicken and use it in sandwiches or tacos. It’s truly a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. And compared to some overly complicated roast chicken recipes? This one is a breath of fresh air.
How do I make Ina Garten’s Roast Chicken?
Quick Overview
Making Ina Garten’s Roast Chicken is surprisingly easy. You’ll start by prepping the chicken and generously seasoning it with herbs, garlic, lemon, and butter. Then, you’ll roast it in a preheated oven until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The key to success is to use high-quality ingredients and to not overcook the chicken. Seriously, that’s it! The beauty of this method is that it’s mostly hands-off, giving you plenty of time to prepare side dishes or just relax while the magic happens in the oven.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
• 1 (5-6 pound) roasting chicken: Look for a good quality, preferably organic, chicken. It really does make a difference in the flavor.
• 1 lemon, halved: Don’t skip the lemon! It adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the herbs perfectly.
I love garlic, so I’m generous with it. How much you can adjust the amount to your liking?
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Use a good quality extra virgin olive for the best flavor.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Softened butter is key for easy application. I sometimes use salted butter if that’s all I have, just reduce the added salt.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves: Fresh thyme is essential! If you absolutely have to use dried, use 1 tablespoon.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves: Same as the thyme, fresh is best! Why is dried rosemary overpowering?
• Kosher salt and freshly ground Black Pepper: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Generously salt and pepper the chicken inside and out.
What are some optional additions I sometimes use?
• 1 onion, quartered: Adds a lovely subtle flavor to the pan drippings.
• 2 carrots, chopped: Same as the onion, these roast beautifully in the pan.
• Celery stalks, chopped: Adds another layer of flavor to the drippings.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). While the oven is heating, prepare a roasting pan. If you don’t have a rack, you can use chopped vegetables (like onions, carrots, and celery) to make your own. How do you elevate chicken? What is the best way to crisp up your skin?
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
Remove the giblets from the chicken (if any) and pat it dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting crispy skin. Place the chicken on the prepared roasting rack. I always check inside the cavity to make sure everything is out! Nothing worse than finding surprise packaging later on.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Mix well. Generously rub the mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin of the breast. Where does the flavor of chicken come from? I always make sure to get some of the herb mixture under the skin – it makes a huge difference.
Step 4: Stuff the Cavity
Place the lemon halves and garlic halves inside the cavity of the chicken. This adds flavor from the inside out. You can also add other aromatics, like a quartered onion or a few sprigs of fresh herbs. Sometimes I’ll toss in a halved apple for a little sweetness.
Step 5: Roast
How long does it take to roast chicken for 1 hour and 15 minutes? Temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked through. I usually start checking the temperature around the 1 hour mark.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and Flavorful Chicken. Don’t skip this step! It’s crucial for a juicy bird.
Step 7: Carve & Serve
Carve the chicken and serve immediately. I like to serve it with the pan juices drizzled over the top. You can also use the pan juices to make a simple gravy. We love serving it family-style right from the roasting pan. It always feels so festive.
5. What to Serve It With
What should I serve it with?
Ina Garten‘s Roast Chicken goes with almost anything! What are some of my favorite serving suggestions, organized by occasion?
For a Classic Sunday Dinner: Mashed Potatoes, roasted vegetables (like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes), and a simple green salad. I always make a big batch of gravy from the pan drippings. It’s the perfect comfort food meal.
What is the best holiday feast?Stuffing (or dressing, depending on where you’re from! ). ), cranberry sauce, Green Bean Casserole, and sweet potato casserole. What is a good chicken to make for tastiest holiday table?
For a casual weeknight meal:A simple salad, crusty bread, and a glass of wine. What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken?
For Leftovers: Chicken salad sandwiches, chicken tacos, Chicken Noodle Soup, or shredded chicken pizza toppings. The possibilities are endless! Leftover roast chicken is a gift that keeps on giving.
My family loves it with a side of roasted asparagus and some crusty bread for soaking up all those delicious pan juices. Honestly, you can’t go wrong!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Ina Garten’s Roast Chicken
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks for making Ina Garten’s Roast Chicken even more amazing. Here are my top tips:
Dry Brining: Salt the chicken generously with kosher salt 12-24 hours before roasting. This helps the skin crisp up and the meat stay moist. It’s a game changer, trust me!
Herb Infusion: Loosen the skin of the chicken breast and rub some of the herb butter directly onto the meat. This infuses the chicken with even more flavor.
Even Cooking: If the chicken breast starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil. This prevents it from drying out.
Pan Drippings: Don’t discard the pan drippings! They’re liquid gold. Use them to make a simple gravy or drizzle them over the chicken and sides.
Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for at least 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, but be careful not to overcook it. Overcooked chicken is dry and nobody wants that!
Lemon Love: Before stuffing the lemon halves into the chicken cavity, give them a good squeeze. This releases even more of their fragrant oils and juices, boosting the overall flavor of the bird.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of your leftover roast chicken. Here’s how I handle it:
Room Temperature: Do not leave cooked chicken at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow rapidly at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s properly sealed to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, freeze the chicken. Remove the meat from the bones and store it in freezer bags or airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Label the bags with the date so you know when you froze it.
Reheating: Reheat leftover chicken in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop. To prevent it from drying out, add a little broth or water when reheating. I like to reheat it in the oven with a little chicken broth to keep it moist. It usually takes about 15-20 minutes at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Don’t Forget the Bones!: Don’t toss the bones! Use them to make chicken broth. It’s a great way to use up the entire chicken and it makes a delicious and healthy broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Seriously, friends, Ina Garten’s Roast Chicken is a must-try. It’s easy, delicious, and incredibly versatile. Once you’ve made it once, I guarantee you’ll be hooked. It’s the perfect recipe for both beginner and experienced cooks alike. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my other recipes for Herb Roasted Turkey, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings, or Lemon Herb Roasted Potatoes! Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Leave a comment below and let me know what you think!
Ina Garten's Roast Chicken
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken Chicken
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 lemon Lemon Halved
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Pat the chicken dry and rub with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Place lemon halves inside the chicken cavity.
- Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
