Salt-Crusted Roasted Chicken

This salt-crusted roasted chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the natural succulence of the bird, resulting in a tender, juicy, and aromatic meal. The technique of encasing the chicken in salt might seem unusual, but the results are outstanding, as the salt forms a crust that seals in moisture and flavor without making the chicken overly salty. This method of cooking is both minimalist and impressive, requiring only basic ingredients yet delivering a gourmet experience. Perfect for dinner gatherings or a weekend family meal, this dish pairs excellently with a variety of side dishes, making it both versatile and crowd-pleasing. The preparation is straightforward, emphasizing the quality and natural taste of the chicken. You'll find that the meat absorbs just the right amount of seasoning from the salt, eliminating the need for a wide array of spices. Whether you're a culinary novice or an experienced cook looking to try something new, this recipe provides a unique approach to roasting chicken. Enjoy a delicious and well-balanced meal that highlights the beauty of simplicity in cooking. Relish in the satisfaction that comes from creating a dish that's both easy to prepare and delightful to eat.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken
• 1 kg coarse salt

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 90 minutes (including 70-80 minutes of cooking time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Preheat your oven** to 180°C (350°F) to ensure it's at the right temperature when the chicken is ready to cook.
2. Choose a large baking tray that's suitable for holding your chicken comfortably with space for the salt crust.
3. Pour the entire kilogram of coarse salt evenly onto the baking tray to form a thin, level layer that will cradle the chicken.
4. Thoroughly wash the whole chicken under cold running water to cleanse it of any impurities.
5. Gently pat the chicken dry with paper towels, ensuring there's no excess moisture as this will help the skin become crisp during roasting.
6. Place the chicken **directly in the center of the salt bed**, ensuring it's well-supported by the salt beneath.
7. Do not add any extra salt or spices to the chicken itself, as the salt bed will provide the necessary seasoning during cooking.
8. Carefully transfer the baking tray with the chicken to the preheated oven.
9. The chicken needs to **roast for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes**. If the chicken is smaller, you may need to adjust the cooking time to just 1 hour.
10. Avoid opening the oven too often during roasting to maintain a consistent temperature and allow the salt crust to develop fully.
11. After the allotted time, use a meat thermometer to check the chicken is thoroughly cooked by measuring the internal temperature at the thickest part of the thigh. It should read at least 165°F (75°C).
12. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute within the meat.
13. Carefully lift the chicken from the salt bed and place it onto a serving platter.
14. Discard the used salt, as it will not be reusable.
15. Carve the chicken and serve it while warm, alongside your choice of side dishes or garnishments.
16. Observe how the chicken is perfectly seasoned without any overpowering saltiness.
17. Feel free to add a simple salad or roasted vegetables as sides to complete the meal.
18. Admire the moisture and tenderness of the chicken achieved through this cooking method.
19. Enjoy each flavorful bite and relish the simplicity and elegance of this dish.

Tips

• Feel free to use fine salt if coarse salt is unavailable, though coarse salt works best for creating a solid crust.
• For an extra layer of flavor, tuck a couple of garlic cloves or a slice of lemon inside the cavity of the chicken.
• Avoid over-seasoning; the salt crust imparts all the necessary flavor naturally.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 19g
• Carbs: 0g

Variations

• For a fragrant touch, consider adding crushed herbs like rosemary or thyme mixed into the salt before baking.
• Substitute the chicken with turkey for a festive holiday meal, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside roasted root vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Garnish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for added freshness.
• Pair with a glass of crisp white wine to complement the flavors.

Best Places

• Chez Camillou - Famous for its unique approach to salt-crusted chicken. Location: Le Bourg, 48210 Aumont-Aubrac, France.
• Café Lurcat - Offers a modern take on classic dishes, including their renowned roasted chicken. Location: 1624 Harmon Place, Minneapolis, USA.
• Tramshed - Known for its roasted chicken selection in a vibrant setting. Location: 32 Rivington St, London, UK.
• Blue Ribbon Brasserie - Celebrated for its eclectic menu and perfectly roasted chicken. Location: 97 Sullivan St, New York, USA.
• Roast - Specializes in traditional roasting techniques with a contemporary twist. Location: The Floral Hall, Stoney St, London, UK.
• Redbird - Combines modern American flavors with classic techniques. Location: 114 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, USA.
• Estela - A destination for innovative cuisine with an emphasis on quality ingredients. Location: 47 E Houston St, New York, USA.
• Candle 79 - Offers a plant-based menu and a unique take on roasted flavors. Location: 154 E 79th St, New York, USA.
• The Little Owl - Known for its cozy atmosphere and deliciously roasted dishes. Location: 90 Bedford St, New York, USA.
• The Ledbury - Renowned for its exquisite cuisine and attention to classic dishes. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, London, UK.