Engagement Chicken

1. 1

   Place rack in upper third of oven and preheat to 400 degrees (200 C.).

2. 2

   Wash chicken inside and out with cold water, remove the giblets, then let the chicken drain, cavity down, in a colander until reaches room temperature (about 15 minutes).

3. 3

   Pat dry with paper towls.

4. 4

   Pour lemon juice all over the chicken (both inside and out).

5. 5

   Season with salt and pepper.

6. 6

   Prick the whole lemons three times with a fork and place deep inside the cavity.

7. 7

   Place the bird breast-side down on a rack in a roasting pan, lower heat to 350 degrees (175 C.) and bake uncovered for 15 minutes.

8. 8

   Remove from oven and turn it breast-side up (use wooden spoons!

9. 9

   ); return it to oven for 35 minutes more.

10. 10

    To make sure it's done, insert a meat thermometer in the thigh; it should read 180 degrees (80 C.), or juices should run clear when chicken is pierced with a fork.

11. 11

    Continue baking if necessary.

12. 12

    Let chicken cool for a few minutes before carving.

13. 13

    Serve with juices.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.