Classic Roast Chicken Recipe

step 1

• STEP 1.Preheat the oven to 425 degrees f.

step 2

• STEP 2.Remove the chicken giblets. Rinse the chicken inside and out.

step 3

• STEP 3.Remove any excess fat and leftover pin feathers and pat the outside dry.

step 4

• STEP 4.Liberally salt and pepper the inside of the chicken.

step 5

• STEP 5.Stuff the cavity with a bunch of thyme, both halves of lemon, and all the garlic.

step 6

• STEP 6.Brush the outside of the chicken with the butter and sprinkle again with salt and pepper.

step 7

• STEP 7.Tie the legs together with kitchen string and tuck the wing tips under the body of the chicken.

step 8

• STEP 8.Place the onions, carrots, and fennel in a roasting pan.

step 9

• STEP 9.Toss with salt, pepper, 20 sprigs of thyme, and olive oil.

step 10

• STEP 10.Spread around the bottom of the roasting pan and place the chicken on top.

step 11

• STEP 11.Roast the chicken for 1 1/2 hours, or until the juices run clear when you cut between a leg and thigh.

step 12

• STEP 12.Remove the chicken and vegetables to a platter and cover with aluminum foil for about 20 minutes.

step 13

• STEP 13.Slice the chicken onto a platter and serve it with the vegetables.

step 14