Engagement Chicken

Directions

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.