Description
Ina Garten’s Sleeper Recipe is a simple, versatile roasted dish that can be made with either a whole chicken or a medley of fresh, seasonal vegetables. This easy-to-follow recipe combines fragrant herbs, garlic, and a touch of lemon to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
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 acidity)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect roasting temperature for cooking chicken or vegetables evenly.
- Prepare the Herb Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary or thyme, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful herb mixture that will coat the chicken or vegetables.
- Season the Chicken or Vegetables: If using chicken, thoroughly coat the chicken skin with the herb mixture, making sure every part is well covered. If using vegetables, toss them evenly in the herb mixture to ensure a consistent flavor throughout.
- Add Butter for Richness: If desired, melt the butter and drizzle it over the seasoned chicken or vegetables for an added layer of richness and flavor.
- Arrange for Roasting: Place the chicken or vegetables evenly spread out on a baking sheet. Make sure there’s enough space around them to roast properly without steaming.
- Roast: Roast in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes. The exact time depends on your choice of main ingredient—roast the chicken until it is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C) or cook the vegetables until they are tender and caramelized.
- Finish with Lemon: Once roasted, immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish to add brightness and a fresh burst of acidity that complements the savory flavors.
- Serve: Serve the roasted chicken or vegetables hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired, for a simple and delightful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh herbs depending on availability or preference; sage or oregano work well too.
- Ensure the chicken is dry before seasoning to get a crispier skin.
- Roasting vegetables on a single layer helps them cook evenly and develop better caramelization.
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken doneness for safety and best results.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
