Ina Garten Engagement Roast Chicken Recipe

This Ina Garten Engagement Roast Chicken Recipe is juicy and flavorful, which includes a whole chicken and fresh garlic. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 1 hour and 25 minutes.

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Ina Garten Engagement Roast Chicken Recipe Ingredients

• 1 (4 to 5-pound) whole chicken, giblets removed
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 whole head of garlic, halved crosswise
• 1 large yellow onion, thickly sliced
• 3–4 sprigs fresh thyme (or rosemary)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Optional: carrots, potatoes, or parsnips, chopped, for roasting in the pan

How To Make Ina Garten Engagement Roast Chicken Recipe

1. Preheat the oven: Set oven to 425°F (220°C). Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help crisp the skin.
2. Season and stuff the chicken: Generously season the inside of the chicken with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, halved garlic, thyme, and a few onion slices.
3. Tie and position the chicken: Tie the legs together with kitchen string and tuck the wing tips under. Arrange the remaining onion slices and optional vegetables in a roasting pan, placing the chicken on top.
4. Brush and roast: Brush melted butter over the chicken and season the outside well with salt and pepper. Roast for 1 hour 15 minutes, or until juices run clear and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Rest and carve: Let the chicken rest for 10–15 minutes, loosely covered with foil. Carve and serve with the pan juices.

Recipe Tips

• Why is it called ‘Engagement Chicken’? Legend says this roast chicken is so good it’s inspired marriage proposals!
• How to get crispy skin: Dry the chicken thoroughly before roasting and don’t cover it while it cooks.
• What vegetables roast best under the chicken? Potatoes, carrots, and parsnips soak up the flavorful drippings.
• Can I use dried herbs instead? Yes, use 1–2 teaspoons of dried thyme or rosemary.
• How to tell when it’s done: Use a meat thermometer—the thickest part of the thigh should read 165°F.

What To Serve With Roast Chicken

Pair this savory roast with classic sides for a comforting meal:

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Roasted Brussels sprouts or green beans
• Crusty bread or dinner rolls
• Herbed rice pilaf
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette

How To Store Engagement Roast Chicken

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken in airtight containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Roast Chicken Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~380
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Sodium: ~300mg

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I use a smaller or larger chicken?
Yes, adjust the cooking time based on weight—about 15–20 minutes per pound.

Do I need a roasting rack?
Not necessarily—placing the chicken on a bed of onions and vegetables works just as well.

Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can season and stuff the chicken up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to roast.

How to make gravy from pan drippings?
Strain the drippings, then simmer with a little flour and broth until thickened.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you don’t serve it with gluten-containing sides.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Filet Mignon In Oven Recipe
• Ina Garten Skillet Roasted Chicken Thighs And Potatoes Recipe
• Ina Garten Style Marry Me Chicken Recipe