Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (around 3-4 pounds)
- 4 cups kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a rack in the middle. Rinse the chicken thoroughly and pat it dry with paper towels. Make sure to remove any giblets from the cavity, as well as excess fat.
Step 2: Creating the Herb Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black peppercorns, fresh thyme, fresh rosemary, and crushed garlic. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.
Step 3: Stuffing the Chicken
Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon slices, making sure to distribute them evenly. This will infuse the chicken with a subtle citrus flavor.
Step 4: Coating the Chicken
Place a layer of aluminum foil on a baking tray. Pour half of the herb mixture onto the foil, creating a bed for the chicken. Gently place the chicken on top of the salt bed, then generously coat the chicken with the remaining herb mixture. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the wings and legs.
Step 5: Baking the Chicken
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. Carefully fold the aluminum foil over the chicken, sealing it tightly to create a packet. Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Step 6: Finalizing the Dish
Remove the baking tray from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for 10 minutes. Carefully open the aluminum foil packet, taking caution of the hot steam. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for an additional 5 minutes before carving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair the salt-baked chicken with a fresh green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
- For added flavor, serve the chicken with a side of tangy barbecue sauce or creamy garlic aioli.
- Enjoy the chicken alongside roasted vegetables for a wholesome and nutritious dinner option.
- Don’t forget to serve it with your favorite beverages, such as a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water infused with citrus.
Now that you have mastered the art of making salt-baked chicken, impress your loved ones with this flavorful and succulent dish. With its crispy skin and juicy meat, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!