Salt Baked Chicken Wings and Drumsticks

This delightful recipe brings out the rich, natural flavors of chicken in a unique and simple way. Salt baked chicken wings and drumsticks are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients. The salt forms a crust around the chicken, locking in moisture and infusing it with a subtle, savory flavor. As the chicken bakes, the skin crisps up, creating a contrasting texture with the succulent meat inside. It's a dish that tantalizes the taste buds and satisfies cravings for hearty, flavorful food. Perfect for any occasion, this dish can be served as a main course or as a delectable appetizer. The method described here ensures a fail-proof result, delivering chicken that's perfectly cooked every time. Whether you're a fan of wings or drumsticks, this recipe caters to all preferences. Complemented with your favorite sides or dipping sauces, it's a crowd-pleaser that will make you the star of any dinner party.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

15-18 chicken wings and/or drumsticks
1.5-2 kg of salt

Preparation Time

Total Time: 70 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

**Preheat** your oven to 190°C (374°F).
**Prepare** a large baking tray by generously spreading 1.5-2 kg of salt across its surface. Ensure the salt layer is even and about 2-3 cm thick.
**Arrange** the chicken wings and drumsticks on top of the salt bed. Make sure they are placed snugly but without pressing them too hard against the salt.
Place the tray into the preheated oven.
**Bake** the chicken for approximately 65 minutes. This slow baking process ensures the chicken remains moist and absorbs the salt’s subtle flavor.
For an extra crispy skin, turn on the oven's fan during the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. This will enhance the browning and crispiness of the chicken’s skin.
Carefully remove the tray from the oven once the chicken is done.
Use a spatula to gently lift the chicken pieces off the salt. Shake off any excess salt from the chicken before serving.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, allowing the juices to settle.
Serve immediately and enjoy your tasty, salt-baked chicken wings and drumsticks!

Tips

**Substitution Tip**: You can use coarse sea salt or kosher salt for a more nuanced flavor.
**Health Tip**: Since most of the salt won't be consumed, this dish remains quite healthy despite the large quantity of salt used during cooking.

Variations

For a spicy kick, sprinkle the chicken with paprika or cayenne pepper before baking.
Try adding a layer of lemon or orange zest to the salt for a citrus-infused flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Serve with a side of garlic aioli or spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.

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