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Salted chicken

⏱ 120 min🍳 90 min👤 4 pp★★★☆☆

Meat is always appreciated by both adults and children and, if eaten in moderation, doesn’t represent a health risk. Of all the various types, however, it is probably healthier to eat white meat, which is also very nutritious and, from the family budget point of view, more economical. That's why it’s an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy a light, nutritious diet and, above all, why it is useful to know all the various ways of adding a touch of imagination to your chicken cookery. So today we suggest making chicken cooked in salt, a new idea based on simplicity and speed of preparation, perfect for all the members of the family, without having to spend loads of time making laborious recipes that don’t even find favour when they’re finished. After putting the salt on chicken and putting him in the oven, there remains nothing to do but entertain your guests ...

Ingredients

Nutritional values 520 kcal / serving
Protein
65g
Carbohydrates
2g
Fat
28g
Fiber
0g

* approximate values per serving

Information
120 minutes Preparation time
90 minutes Cooking time
Serves 4 persons
★★★☆☆ Challenging

Preparation

Prepare the salt for the crust: pour all the salt into a bowl and mix it with the cumin, pepper, herbs and garlic to give it aroma and flavour. Finally moisten the salt with some water. Take two medium sized chickens and moderately salt the inside, also adding a clove of crushed garlic, a sprig of rosemary and some lemon segments. Rub olive oil on both the inside and the outside. Seal up the chicken’s cavity with a big piece of lemon so that the salt can’t get it. In a high-sided baking dish, pour in a layer of salt and position the chicken on top, then cover with more salt to form a pyramid. Do the same with the second chicken. Bake at 200°C for an hour and a half. Once baked you will have to break the crust with a wooden hammer and the chicken will emerge all juicy and tasty.

Tips
To give an even more distinctive flavour to your salted chicken, you could add some herbs such as marjoram, sage or even a touch of nutmeg.
Trivia
This recipe for the chicken roasted in salt derives, according to some sources, from Mediterranean cuisines, whilst others argue that it is a recipe originating in India or other Asian countries.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
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Additional information

Salted Chicken with Lemon and Aromatic Spices

One of the tastiest variations of Salted Chicken is the one that includes lemon and a selection of aromatic spices. In this preparation, the lemon not only adds freshness to the dish but also helps keep the chicken tender and juicy during cooking. To achieve maximum flavor, it is advisable to use organic lemons, as the zest can be used to further flavor the salt. Spices such as cumin, chili, and herbs make this salted chicken a dish rich in aromas and flavors, perfect for a special dinner or a celebration. The salt crust that forms during cooking not only protects the chicken but also infuses unique aromas that are released at the moment of cutting. Try serving this dish with fresh sides like salads or grilled vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Friulian Salted Chicken

The tradition of Salted Chicken is enriched with the Friulian variant, which involves the use of typical ingredients from the region, such as rosemary and juniper berries. In Friuli Venezia Giulia, this dish is prepared using methods that enhance the flavor of the chicken through slow and careful cooking. The combination of coarse salt with local aromatic herbs creates a crust that seals in the juices, making the meat particularly tender. By adding juniper berries, a touch of uniqueness and an enveloping aroma reminiscent of the Friulian woods is imparted. This variant is often served during holidays or special occasions, where the connection to the territory is celebrated through the authentic flavors of local cuisine. Don't forget to pair the dish with typical regional wines that will further enhance the flavors of the salted chicken.

Light Salted Chicken without Oil

For those seeking a lighter version of Salted Chicken, it is possible to prepare it without oil while still maintaining a rich and delicious flavor. This light variant is perfect for those who want to enjoy a flavorful dish but with fewer calories. In this preparation, the chicken is seasoned with salt and aromatic spices, without the addition of oil, allowing you to savor the authentic taste of the ingredients. The salt crust continues to serve its protective function, keeping the meat moist and flavorful. For an additional light touch, fresh vegetables can be added as a side, providing vitamins and fiber to the meal. This version is ideal for those following a balanced diet, without giving up the pleasures of good food and keeping the focus on fresh and natural ingredients.

Salted Chicken: Benefits and Nutritional Values

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. Additionally, it is rich in B vitamins, which play a fundamental role in metabolism and energy production. The preparation of Salted Chicken, in particular, allows for the retention of nutrients within the meat, thanks to cooking in a salt crust. A medium-sized salted chicken (about 1.5 kg) provides approximately 250-300 calories per serving, making it a nutritious dish but not excessively caloric. The addition of spices such as chili and cumin not only enriches the flavor but also offers anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Incorporating this dish into your diet can contribute to a healthy and balanced nutrition without compromising on taste.

Can Salted Chicken be Frozen?

The question of whether Salted Chicken can be frozen is common among those who love to prepare dishes in advance. In general, it is possible to freeze salted chicken, but there are some considerations to keep in mind. Before freezing it, it is advisable to let it cool completely and then wrap it well in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to avoid freezer burn. However, the salt crust may not maintain the same consistency and flavor after the thawing process. For optimal results, it is best to consume the salted chicken fresh, but if you decide to freeze it, make sure to consume it within 2-3 months to ensure the best quality. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat it in the oven to restore the crispness of the crust.