Description
Ina Garten’s Sleeper Recipe is a simple, comforting roasted dish that can feature either a whole chicken or a medley of seasonal vegetables. Infused with fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon, this versatile recipe yields a golden, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Herb Mixture
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh herbs (such as rosemary or thyme), chopped
- 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, or parsnips)
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for added richness)
- 1 lemon (for zest and juice)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for roasting.
- Prepare the Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Season the Chicken or Vegetables: If using a whole chicken, rub the herb mixture thoroughly over the entire chicken, ensuring the skin is well coated. If using vegetables, toss the seasonal veggies in the herb mixture to coat evenly.
- Add Butter for Richness: Optionally, melt the butter and drizzle it over the chicken or vegetables to enhance flavor and juiciness.
- Arrange for Roasting: Place the chicken or vegetables in a single even layer on a baking sheet, making sure nothing is overcrowded for even cooking.
- Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes. For chicken, cook until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). For vegetables, roast until tender and caramelized.
- Add Lemon Zest and Juice: Once out of the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle some lemon zest for a fresh, bright finish.
- Serve: Serve the roasted chicken or vegetables immediately, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- You can vary the herbs according to preference; rosemary and thyme work exceptionally well.
- Use seasonal vegetables available to you for the best flavor and freshness.
- If roasting chicken, consider checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer for safety.
- Butter is optional but adds richness and a beautiful golden color.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
