Thai Lemongrass Roast Chicken

HollyGolightly's Note:

This is really flavorful and juicy roast chicken. Even my husband, who is growing tired of chicken, picks the bird clean when I make this one. From Fine Cooking, #22. Marinating time included in the prep time.

• Total Time: 4 hrs 25 mins
• Prep Time: 3 hrs 15 mins
• Cook Time: 1 hrs 10 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 1/2 cup finely chopped lemongrass (3 or 4 stalks)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
• 4 1/2 teaspoons fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 (3 -4 lb) whole chickens, rinsed and patted dry
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Directions:

1. In a nonreactive dish large enough to hold the chicken, combine all but 2 Tbs. of the lemongrass with all of the shallots, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, salt, and sugar. Add the chicken and turn it to coat, tucking some of the marinade underneath its skin. Pour any excess marinade into the bird’s cavity. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight. Bring the chicken to room temperature before cooking it.
2. Heat the oven to 350°F Put the chicken, breast side down, on a rack in a roasting pan. Cook for 40 minute Turn the bird over and roast until the chicken is cooked and nicely browned, 20 to 30 minute The sugar in the marinade may cause the pan juices to burn, but this won’t affect the chicken’s flavor.
3. About 10 minute before the chicken is done, combine the remaining 2 Tbs. lemongrass with the cilantro and vegetable oil. Using a spoon, rub the mixture on the bird, spreading it evenly; continue roasting. The chicken is done when its juices run clear. Let the chicken sit for 10 minute out of the oven before carving.

Reviews

[Chris Reynolds]

My DH gives this chicken 3 stars. I followed this recipe the way it was written except I only put in 1tsp of pepper flakes. I knew it would be too hot if I added a full tbsp. I could have added another 1/2' to 1 tsp, I think.

[gailanng]

Made your Thai Lemongrass Chicken. Wait, Holly...HollyGolightly did you just fall to the floor? It's just a picture for heaven sake!

[932ninja]

Ms Holly you have a winner!!! I didn't change a thing, I added 2 cubed potatoes to the pan while baking, and it was AMAZING! My husband wants this in "heavy rotation" which translates to once a week. Thanks so much!