Description
Ina Garten’s Sleeper Recipe is a simple yet flavorful roasted dish featuring either a whole chicken or a medley of seasonal vegetables enhanced with fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon. This versatile recipe delivers a comforting and delicious meal with minimal effort, making it perfect for a satisfying family dinner or a cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Herb Mixture
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh herbs (such as chopped rosemary or thyme)
- 3-4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Main Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds) or 3-4 cups assorted seasonal vegetables (carrots, onions, potatoes, parsnips)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for added richness)
- 1 lemon (for zest and acidity)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting.
- Prepare Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, fresh minced garlic, chopped rosemary or thyme, salt, and pepper to create a fragrant herb mixture.
- Season the Main Ingredient: If using chicken, thoroughly coat the skin with the herb mixture for maximum flavor. For vegetables, toss them evenly in the same olive oil and herb mixture to ensure good coverage.
- Add Butter (Optional): Melt the butter and drizzle it over the chicken or vegetables to enhance richness and promote browning if desired.
- Arrange for Roasting: Place the seasoned chicken or vegetables evenly spread out on a baking sheet to allow for optimal roasting.
- Roast: Roast the dish in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes. Roast chicken until golden brown and cooked through; vegetables should be tender and caramelized.
- Finish with Lemon: Once roasted, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken or vegetables to add a bright acidity and fresh zest.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired for an extra touch of flavor.
Notes
- For even cooking, ensure vegetables are cut into uniform pieces.
- You can substitute other fresh herbs like sage or oregano according to preference.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- The optional butter adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter dish.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
