Classic French Pot-roasted Chicken
Experience the essence of French cuisine with this Classic Pot-roasted Chicken, a method that perfectly combines flavor and tenderness. Cooking a whole chicken in a covered pot locks in moisture, resulting in juicy, succulent meat and a deeply aromatic seasoning profile. Accompanied by beautifully roasted vegetables and a rich, savory jus, this dish brings a piece of rustic French elegance to your dining table. Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions, this recipe, adapted from America's Test Kitchen and featured in Cook's Illustrated Magazine, ensures a delightful culinary adventure with every bite. Enjoy the ambiance of French cooking right in your home.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
whole roasting chicken
1 (4 1/2 to 5 lb, giblets removed and wings tucked under back)
kosher salt
2 teaspoons (or 1 teaspoon table salt, use half for kosher chicken)
ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (freshly ground)
olive oil
1 tablespoon (for cooking)
onion
1 small (chopped medium (about 1/2 cup))
celery rib
1 small (chopped medium (about 1/4 cup))
garlic cloves
6 medium (peeled and trimmed)
bay leaf
1 (dried)
fresh rosemary sprig
1 medium (optional)
lemon juice
1/2-1 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic French Pot-roasted Chicken?
It is a traditional French cooking method where a whole chicken is cooked in a covered pot to lock in moisture, resulting in juicy, succulent meat and a rich jus.
What makes pot-roasting different from traditional roasting?
Unlike open-air roasting, pot-roasting uses a covered vessel to create a moist environment that ensures the chicken remains tender and flavorful throughout.
What size chicken is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for a whole roasting chicken weighing between 4 1/2 and 5 pounds.
How should the chicken be prepared before cooking?
The giblets should be removed and the wings should be tucked under the back to ensure even cooking.
Can I use table salt instead of kosher salt?
Yes, you can substitute 2 teaspoons of kosher salt with 1 teaspoon of table salt.
What if I am using a kosher chicken?
If you are using a kosher chicken, you should use only half the amount of salt specified in the recipe.
What type of oil is used in this recipe?
The recipe requires one tablespoon of olive oil for the cooking process.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe uses 6 medium garlic cloves, which should be peeled and trimmed.
Is rosemary required for this dish?
The fresh rosemary sprig is optional, but it is recommended for added aromatic flavor.
Why is lemon juice added to the recipe?
A small amount of lemon juice (1/2 to 1 teaspoon) is used to brighten the final flavor profile of the chicken and jus.
What vegetables are used as aromatics?
The recipe uses chopped onion, celery, and garlic to create a deeply aromatic base.
How much onion should I use?
You will need one small onion, chopped medium, which is approximately 1/2 cup.
How much celery is required?
Use one small celery rib, chopped medium, which yields about 1/4 cup.
What is the source of this recipe?
This recipe is adapted from America's Test Kitchen and was featured in Cook's Illustrated Magazine.
Does this recipe produce a sauce?
Yes, the pot-roasting method creates a rich, savory jus that is served with the chicken.
Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Yes, its rustic French elegance makes it ideal for family gatherings or special dinner parties.
What kind of pepper should I use?
The recipe specifies 1/4 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
Is a bay leaf used in this recipe?
Yes, one dried bay leaf is included to enhance the aromatic seasoning profile.
What type of cuisine is this?
This recipe is a staple of French cuisine, focusing on simple ingredients and slow-cooking techniques.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 main ingredients required for this classic French dish.
What is the benefit of tucking the wings under the back?
Tucking the wings prevents them from burning and helps the chicken cook more uniformly.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is tagged as comfort food because of its hearty, savory, and home-cooked qualities.
What is the primary cooking vessel for this dish?
A covered pot, such as a Dutch oven, is used to lock in the moisture during the roasting process.
Can I use frozen chicken?
While the recipe assumes a fresh or fully thawed roasting chicken, ensure it is completely thawed before starting.
Is this recipe considered a slow cooking method?
Yes, pot-roasting is a form of slow cooking that relies on steady heat and steam to tenderize the meat.
What texture does the chicken have?
The chicken is known for being exceptionally juicy and succulent due to the steam trapped in the pot.
Does this recipe include any herbs?
Yes, it includes a dried bay leaf and an optional fresh rosemary sprig.
Is the garlic chopped or whole?
The recipe calls for 6 medium garlic cloves that are peeled and trimmed but otherwise left whole or slightly crushed.
What does 'jus' mean in this context?
Jus refers to the natural juices released by the chicken during cooking, enhanced by the aromatics.
How should I serve the Classic French Pot-roasted Chicken?
It is best served with its accompanying roasted vegetables and the savory jus drizzled over the sliced meat.