Follow these steps for perfect results
dry lentils
picked over
whole chicken roaster
cut into two halves
potatoes
cut in 1 inch dice
carrots
cut in 1 inch pieces
parsnips
cut in 1 inch pieces
celery root
peeled and cut up into 1 inch pieces
butternut squash
peeled, seeded and cut into 1 inch pieces
onion
cut lengthwise into eighths
garlic
roughly chopped
extra virgin olive oil
divided
fresh sage leaves
herbes de provence
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
white wine
optional
chopped parsley
optional
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
Place the lentils in a medium saucepan, cover with three inches of water, and bring to a boil.
Cover the saucepan and lower to a simmer for 20 minutes, just until the beans are tender.
Drain the lentils and replace in the saucepan.
Add salt and pepper to taste and cover loosely with a tea towel.
Combine the cut up vegetables and garlic with 3 tablespoons of olive oil and salt and pepper to taste.
Spread the veggies out in a single layer in a large roasting pan.
Distribute the sage leaves over top of the vegetables.
Combine the herbes de provence with the remaining olive oil.
Rub the mixture all over the skin of the two chicken halves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Place the two chicken halves skin side up on top of the winter vegetables.
Roast in the oven until a thermometer inserted into the thigh reads 160 degrees and the chicken juices run clear.
Remove the chicken and veggies from the oven and place the chicken on a cutting board covered loosely with a piece of foil.
Test the veggies for doneness.
When the largest piece of celery root is easily pierced with a sharp knife, the veggies are done.
If the veggies are not done, return to the oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until finished cooking.
Toss together lightly the cooked veggies with the lentils and a large spoonful of the juices from the roasting pan. Taste and add salt and pepper if necessary.
Deglaze the pan over medium high heat with the wine or chicken stock.
Arrange the lentil mixture on a large serving platter.
Carve the chicken into serving size portions and arrange the chicken pieces atop the lentils.
Spoon some of the pan gravy over the chicken, garnish with chopped herbs, and serve immediately.
Expert advice for the best results
For crispier chicken skin, pat the chicken dry before roasting.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Roast the vegetables until they are tender and slightly caramelized for best flavor.
Everything you need to know before you start
20 minutes
The lentils can be cooked ahead of time.
Arrange the lentils on a platter, top with chicken, and drizzle with pan juices. Garnish with parsley.
Serve with a side of crusty bread.
Pair with a green salad.
Earthy and complements the chicken and vegetables.
Discover the story behind this recipe
Hearty winter meal.
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