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Ina Garten Roast Chicken with Croutons Recipe

Ina Garten Roast Chicken with Croutons

This dish combines the simplicity of a classic roast chicken with the unique addition of croutons, which are toasted in the oven and absorb the chicken’s savory drippings. It’s a flavorful, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for special occasions or Sunday dinners.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • Whole chicken – 4-5 pounds
  • Kosher salt – 2 teaspoons
  • Freshly ground black pepper – 1 teaspoon
  • Lemon – 1, halved
  • Garlic – 1 head, cut in half crosswise
  • Fresh thyme – 6 sprigs
  • Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
  • Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons, melted

For the Croutons

  • Country bread – 1 loaf, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
  • Kosher salt – ½ teaspoon
  • Freshly ground black pepper – ¼ teaspoon

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Remove the chicken’s giblets and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season the cavity with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with the lemon halves, garlic, and thyme.
  • 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 the wings under the body.

Roast the Chicken

  • Place the chicken breast side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
  • Roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the juices run clear when you cut between the leg and the thigh, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Remove the chicken from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

Prepare the Croutons

  • While the chicken rests, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place the bread cubes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
  • Toast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Assemble and Serve

  • Carve the chicken into serving pieces.
  • Arrange the croutons on a platter and place the chicken pieces on top. Drizzle with any accumulated juices from the roasting pan. Serve warm.