Oven-baked chicken

Oven Roasted Chicken with Coarse Salt: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

When it comes to cooking, nothing compares to the aroma of tender, oven-roasted chicken. This coarse salt oven roasted chicken recipe is not only easy to make but also extremely satisfying. The chicken will retain its juiciness thanks to the coarse salt, and the final result will be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. So, get ready to enjoy a classic dish that will bring a smile to your face.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 1 kg)
- Coarse salt (about 200 g)

Necessary utensils:
- An oven
- A baking tray
- An oven rack
- A sharp knife
- A kitchen brush (optional)

Step by step: Cooking the chicken

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken well under a stream of cold water. This is an essential step as it removes impurities, making the meat cleaner and tastier. After washing, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess water.

2. Cutting the chicken: Use a sharp knife to cut the chicken in half. This technique not only reduces baking time but also helps in even browning. If you like, you can make a few incisions in the meat to allow the salt to penetrate better.

3. Rubbing with salt: Now comes the fun part! Rub the chicken with coarse salt, making sure to cover the entire surface well. The salt will help enhance the flavors and create a crispy crust. If desired, you can also add spices like black pepper or garlic powder to diversify the flavors.

4. Preparing the oven: Preheat the oven to 200°C. While the oven is heating up, place a tray of water on the bottom rack of the oven. This will create steam, which will keep the meat juicy and prevent the chicken from drying out during baking.

5. Baking: Place the chicken on the rack and put it in the oven. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, checking occasionally. If you wish, you can turn the chicken after about 45 minutes to ensure even browning. The golden color of the skin will be the sign that the chicken is ready!

6. Serving: Once the chicken is cooked, take it out of the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute in the meat, making it even juicier. Serve it alongside sides like French fries, green salad, or grilled vegetables.

Useful tips:
- Choosing the chicken: Always opt for a quality chicken, preferably one raised naturally. It will have a better texture and a more intense flavor.
- Variations: If you want to experiment, you can add herbs (rosemary, thyme) inside the chicken before baking or brush the skin with olive oil for extra flavor.
- Frequently asked questions:
- *Can I use fine salt instead of coarse salt?* It is recommended to use coarse salt as it will create a crispier crust. However, if you don't have it on hand, you can use fine salt but use a smaller amount.
- *How do I know when the chicken is done?* The meat should have a golden color, and if using a kitchen thermometer, the internal temperature should be at least 75°C.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, low in fat, especially if you choose to consume the breast. It is also rich in B vitamins, which are essential for metabolic health.

Delicious pairings:
To turn this simple dish into a feast, you can serve it with a dry white wine or a blonde beer. A fresh salad or a side of rice with vegetables can add extra flavor and texture.

A personal note:
This coarse salt oven roasted chicken recipe reminds me of family meals, where we would all gather to enjoy a beautifully roasted chicken. It is a dish that combines simplicity with authentic flavor, bringing joy and warmth in every bite.

So, don’t hesitate to try this delicious recipe and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills! You will discover that, despite its simplicity, this oven-roasted chicken will surely become a favorite at your table. Bon appétit!