1,700+ 5-Star Reviews: Ina Garten’s Perfect Roast Chicken

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, satisfying dish that never fails to impress, look no further than Ina Garten’s Perfect Roast Chicken. With over 1,700 enthusiastic reviews, this recipe from the beloved Barefoot Contessa has become a go-to for many home cooks. Juicy meat, crispy golden skin, and a medley of flavor-packed veggies make it a classic dinner that feels extravagant yet is delightfully simple to prepare.

The Essence of Comfort Food

Roast chicken is a universal symbol of comfort. Its warm, inviting aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising a meal that nourishes both body and soul. Ina’s recipe takes this culinary staple to the next level, transforming the everyday chicken into an elegant feast.

What You’ll Need

To create this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 (5 to 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 (1/4 stick) butter, melted
• 1 large yellow onion, thickly sliced
• 4 carrots cut into 2-inch chunks
• 1 bulb of fennel, tops removed, and cut into wedges
• Olive oil

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 425 degrees F to ensure a perfect roast.

2. Prepare the Chicken: Remove any giblets, rinse the chicken thoroughly, and pat it dry. Be sure to trim any excess fat or pin feathers.

3. Season Generously: Liberally salt and pepper the interior of the chicken. For added flavor, stuff the cavity with the bunch of thyme, the lemon halves, and the garlic.

4. Butter Up: Brush the outside of the chicken with melted butter and season it once again with salt and pepper. Tie the legs together with kitchen string and tuck the wing tips under the chicken’s body for a neat presentation.

5. Arrange the Veggies: In a roasting pan, combine the sliced onions, carrots, and fennel. Toss the vegetables with salt, pepper, 20 sprigs of thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil. Spread them evenly in the pan and position the chicken on top.

6. Roasting Time: Roast in the oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the juices run clear when you cut between the leg and thigh.

7. Rest Before Serving: Once done, transfer the chicken and vegetables to a platter. Cover with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

8. Slice and Serve: Finally, carve the chicken and present it on a platter alongside the roasted vegetables for a beautiful, hearty meal.

A Special Occasion Dish

While it’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner, Ina Garten’s Perfect Roast Chicken is also the ideal centerpiece for special occasions or family gatherings. Its ease and elegance come together to create a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, this roast chicken recipe invites you to embrace the joy of cooking. Share it with loved ones, and let the delightful aroma fill your home, creating lasting memories around the dinner table. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow Ina’s time-honored steps, and let the comforting magic of a perfect roast chicken make your evening special!

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Video “1,700+ 5-Star Reviews: Ina Garten's Perfect Roast Chicken | Barefoot Contessa | Food Network” was uploaded on 12/05/2025 to Youtube Channel Food Network