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Ina Garten Roast Chicken with Croutons

Ina Garten Roast Chicken with Croutons

Roast Chicken with Croutons is a beautifully roasted whole chicken, seasoned to perfection, and served over toasted bread cubes that absorb the flavorful drippings. Ina Garten’s version ensures a crispy-skinned, juicy chicken with croutons that are both crispy and tender.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Roast Chicken:

  • 1 (4-5 pound) whole chicken, giblets removed
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 lemon, quartered
  • 1 head garlic, halved crosswise
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Croutons:

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

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Set the temperature: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

  • Season the cavity: Stuff the chicken with lemon quarters, halved garlic, and thyme sprigs.
  • Season the skin: Pat the chicken dry and rub it with kosher salt and black pepper.
  • Brush with butter and oil: Mix the melted butter and olive oil, then brush it over the chicken.

Step 3: Roast the Chicken

  • Place in the oven: Set the chicken breast side up on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
  • Roast: Cook for 1 hour and 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.
  • Rest the chicken: Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.

Step 4: Prepare the Croutons

  • Toast the bread: While the chicken rests, toss the bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  • Bake until crispy: Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, stirring once, until golden brown.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

  • Arrange the croutons: Place the toasted bread cubes on a serving platter.
  • Carve the chicken: Cut the chicken into pieces and arrange over the croutons.
  • Drizzle with juices: Pour the pan juices over the chicken and croutons for extra flavor.