Aromatic Herb and Apple-Glazed Chicken

This delightful recipe brings together the savory taste of a whole chicken with the sweet and tangy combination of apple juice and honey marinade enriched with various herbs and spices. The dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or as the centerpiece at a festive gathering. The marination allows the flavors to penetrate deep into the chicken, creating a tender and juicy texture. Juniper berries, coriander seeds, and cinnamon sticks offer a unique aromatic profile that elevates this meal to a gourmet level. The process is straightforward but requires some patience as marinating time is crucial to achieve the best results. Cooking it to the perfect internal temperature ensures safety and juiciness. The dish is versatile and can be cooked in different ways depending on what you have available in your kitchen, such as using a roasting pan or a baking bag. With a simple preparation and an incredibly rewarding outcome, this chicken recipe is bound to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 whole chicken
120 ml apple juice
80 g honey
60 ml wine vinegar
100 ml oil

Spices and Sauces

10 g juniper berries
3 onions, chopped
1 garlic clove, crushed
4 cinnamon sticks
1 tbsp coriander seeds
6 bay leaves
3 tbsp mustard (preferably French)
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time

Total: 200 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Aromatics: Begin by finely chopping the onions and garlic. Crush the garlic for a stronger flavor impact. Using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder, crush the juniper berries and coriander seeds to release their aromatic oils.
Mix the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped onions, crushed garlic, and spices. Stir in the oil, apple juice, wine vinegar, honey, and mustard until well integrated. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your preference.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the whole chicken in the marinade, ensuring it is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 to 5 hours to let the flavors seep into the chicken. This step is critical for a flavorful outcome, so do not shorten the marinating time.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven temperature to 190-200°C (about 375-400°F) as you prepare to cook the chicken.
Cook the Chicken: Transfer the marinated chicken to a roasting pan. Depending on your preferred method, either place it in a roasting bag to keep it moist or directly on the pan for a roasted texture. If opting for the roasting bag, pierce a few holes for steam to escape.
Roast to Perfection: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 75-90°C (approximately 165-195°F). This should take between 40 minutes and 1 hour, depending on your oven's efficiency.
Brown the Chicken: If you used a roasting bag or foil, remove it during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to allow the skin to brown and become crisp.
Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, let the chicken rest outside of the oven for at least 10 minutes before carving. This helps retain juices for a more succulent texture.
Check for Juiciness: While carving, ensure the juices run clear, which indicates proper cooking. If the juices are pink, roast for a little longer.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice the chicken and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy the delightful fusion of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors in every bite.

Tips

Marination Time: For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 5 hours or overnight.
Spicing it Up: Adjust the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Cooking Variation: For an outdoor twist, cook the chicken on a grill while basting with the marinade for a smoky flavor.

Nutritions (per serving)

Calories: 450
Protein: 40g
Fat: 25g
Carbs: 20g

Variations

Dietary Needs: Substitute honey with agave syrup for a vegan-friendly glaze.
Spice Alternatives: Use ground cumin or smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dish: Pair with roasted vegetables or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Garnish: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top for a splash of color and additional flavor.
Accompaniment: A glass of crisp white wine complements the dish beautifully.

Best Places

The Herb Kitchen - A charming café known for its herb-centric dishes. Location: 123 Greenway St., Denver, USA.
Apple & Spice Bistro - Offers a variety of fruit-infused meals. Location: 456 Orchard Blvd., Wellington, New Zealand.
Sweet & Savory Eats - Elegantly prepared international fusion cuisine. Location: 789 Gourmet Rd., London, UK.
Juniper Table & Bar - Local hotspot with a focus on spiced dishes. Location: 321 Flora Ave., Sydney, Australia.
Mustard & Honey Dining - Specializes in mustard-glazed entrees. Location: 654 Culinary Ln., Paris, France.
Cinnamon Cove - Perfect for indulging in cinnamon-infused recipes. Location: 987 Spice Dr., Singapore.
Bay Leaf Bistro - Inviting spot for herb and spice lovers. Location: 543 Leafy Rd., Toronto, Canada.
The Cellar Door - Rustic charm meets gourmet cuisine. Location: 432 Wine St., Cape Town, South Africa.
The Savory Nest - Cozy and intimate dining experience. Location: 876 Nest Ct., Hong Kong.
Oil & Vinegar - Offers robust flavors with a touch of elegance. Location: 678 Pour St., Rome, Italy.