Ina Garten Roast Chicken With Croutons Recipe

This Ina Garten Roast Chicken with Croutons Recipe is a juicy and flavorful dish, which includes whole roasted chicken and crispy country bread croutons. It’s a classic, foolproof recipe, ready in about 1 hour and 25 minutes.

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Ina Garten Roast Chicken With Croutons Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (4–5 pounds)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 lemon, halved
• 1 head garlic, halved crosswise
• 6 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the croutons:

• 1 loaf country bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How To Make Ina Garten Roast Chicken With Croutons

1. Prep the chicken: Preheat oven to 425°F. Remove giblets and pat the chicken dry. Season the cavity with salt and pepper. Stuff with lemon halves, garlic, and thyme.
2. Season the outside: Brush the chicken all over with melted butter and olive oil. Season generously with salt and pepper. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck wings under.
3. Roast the chicken: Place breast-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, until juices run clear and internal temp hits 165°F. Rest covered with foil for 10–15 minutes.
4. Toast the croutons: Lower oven to 375°F. Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden.
5. Serve: Carve the chicken. Arrange croutons on a platter, top with chicken pieces, and drizzle with pan juices.

Recipe Tips

• How to keep chicken juicy:
  Let it rest after roasting to allow juices to redistribute.
• Can I use store-bought croutons?
  Homemade is best, but in a pinch, use high-quality bakery-style croutons.
• What bread is best for croutons?
  Rustic country or sourdough bread works best for texture.
• How do I know when chicken is done?
  Check that the internal temp is 165°F at the thickest part of the thigh.
• What to do with leftovers:
  Use in sandwiches, salads, or soups the next day.

What To Serve With Roast Chicken And Croutons

This comforting main dish pairs well with classic sides:

• Roasted root vegetables
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed green beans or asparagus
• A simple vinaigrette-dressed salad
• A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Noir

How To Store Roast Chicken With Croutons

Refrigerate:
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep croutons separate to stay crispy.

Freeze:
Chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge and reheat. Do not freeze croutons.

Roast Chicken With Croutons Nutrition Facts

• Calories: ~520
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 30g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

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

FAQs

Can I roast the chicken without a rack?
Yes, use a bed of chopped vegetables like carrots and onions instead.

Is there a way to crisp up the skin more?
Broil for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking for extra crispiness.

Can I use dried thyme?
Fresh is best, but substitute 1 teaspoon dried thyme if needed.

What can I use instead of lemon?
Try orange halves or a splash of white wine in the cavity.

Can I roast two chickens at once?
Yes, just ensure they have space and adjust cook time accordingly.

Try More Recipes:

• Ina Garten Chicken Parmesan With Arugula Recipe
• Ina Garten Chicken Cutlets Recipe
• Contessa Pasta Fagioli Recipe