Perfect Roast Chicken

Ina Garten, affectionately known as the Barefoot Contessa, is a beloved American chef, author, and television personality. With her warm and inviting approach to cooking, Ina has inspired countless home cooks through her cookbooks and TV shows. One of her most iconic recipes is the Perfect Roast Chicken, a dish that epitomizes her philosophy of simple, elegant, and delicious food. This recipe is a staple in many households, known for its juicy, flavorful meat and crispy skin. Ina’s method ensures a perfectly roasted chicken every time, making it a go-to recipe for both special occasions and everyday dinners.

Ingredients:

  • 1 (6-pound) roasting chicken
  • Kosher salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 large bunch fresh thyme, plus 20 sprigs
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 1 head garlic, cut in half crosswise
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 large yellow onion, thickly sliced
  • 4 carrots, cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 1 bulb fennel, tops removed, and cut into wedges
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Remove the chicken giblets. Rinse the chicken inside and out, and pat it dry. Liberally salt and pepper the inside of the chicken. Stuff the cavity with the bunch of thyme, both halves of the lemon, and all the garlic. Brush the outside of the chicken with the butter and sprinkle again with salt and pepper. Tie the legs together with kitchen string and tuck the wing tips under the body of the chicken.
  3. Prepare the Vegetables: Place the onions, carrots, and fennel in a roasting pan. Toss with salt, pepper, 20 sprigs of thyme, and olive oil. Spread around the bottom of the roasting pan and place the chicken on top.
  4. Roast the Chicken: Roast the chicken for 1 1/2 hours, or until the juices run clear when you cut between a leg and thigh. Remove the chicken and vegetables to a platter and cover with aluminum foil for about 20 minutes.
  5. Serve: Slice the chicken onto a platter and serve it with the roasted vegetables.

This Perfect Roast Chicken by Ina Garten is a classic recipe that brings comfort and joy to any meal. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the simplicity of this timeless dish!

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