Chicken in the sauna

Chicken in the Sauna: A Flavorful and Easy-to-Cook Delicacy

Cooking chicken can become a real challenge, especially when we want to try something new without putting in considerable effort. This sauna chicken recipe is not only simple but also full of flavors and taste. It is prepared with basic ingredients but uses an innovative technique that will impress anyone. Let’s discover together how we can transform a simple chicken into a delicacy worthy of the most elegant tables!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 4 chicken thighs (or breast, as preferred)
- 200 g mushrooms (champignon or any preferred type)
- 4 ripe tomatoes
- 100 g olives (green or black, to taste)
- 6 cloves of garlic
- 1 hot pepper (optional, depending on spice tolerance)
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme
- 1 bunch of parsley
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Spice mixes (salt, pepper, preferred spices)

A short story about "chicken in the sauna"

This recipe has deep roots in culinary tradition, stemming from the desire to cook meat in a way that preserves all flavors and juices without requiring much supervision. The technique of covering the pot with a dough lid has been used for centuries to create a moist and warm environment, ideal for making the meat tender and juicy. So, let’s embark on this culinary journey!

Step by Step: How to prepare chicken in the sauna

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the chicken thighs well and drying them with a paper towel. This will help achieve a crispy skin. Cut the tomatoes and mushrooms into cubes, and you can leave the garlic unpeeled but lightly crushed with the blade of a knife. The garlic will add a delicious flavor but won’t be overpowering.

2. Seasoning the chicken:
In a bowl, mix the chicken thighs with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. You can also add a few thyme leaves to enhance the flavors. Let them marinate for about 10 minutes.

3. Browning:
In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil and add the crushed garlic cloves and hot pepper. Sauté them for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Then add the chicken thighs and brown them on each side for 10 minutes, turning occasionally.

4. Adding the vegetables:
After the chicken is browned, add the chopped tomatoes, mushrooms, and olives. Mix well and let everything simmer for 15 minutes over low heat, covering the skillet with a lid. This step will help develop the flavors and create a delicious sauce.

5. Transferring to the clay pot:
Once the vegetables have softened, transfer the mixture to a clay pot. This will help retain heat and moisture during baking, providing an exceptional final result.

6. Preparing the dough lid:
In a separate bowl, mix the 3 tablespoons of water with 1 tablespoon of flour. This mixture will be used to grease the edge of the pot, helping the dough lid stick well. Roll out the bread dough into a thin sheet and cover the pot, ensuring it is well sealed.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the covered pot in the oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes or until the lid turns golden and crispy.

8. Serving:
Remove the pot from the oven and let it cool slightly. Carefully remove the dough lid and serve the chicken warm, alongside the bread lid or a portion of warm polenta. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the chicken for a touch of freshness.

Useful tips for a perfect result:
- Use high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavor.
- You can experiment with different types of mushrooms or olives to create various versions.
- If you want a spicier taste, you can also add freshly chopped hot pepper or chili flakes to the vegetable mixture.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use pork or beef, but the cooking time will change. Make sure the meat is well cooked.

- What can I do with the leftovers?
The leftover chicken can be turned into a delicious salad or a sandwich. Additionally, the sauce can be used to flavor pasta or rice.

- Is this recipe suitable for a diet?
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and using fresh vegetables and olive oil makes this recipe healthy and balanced. The portion can be adjusted according to caloric preferences.

Ideal combinations:
Chicken in the sauna pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a craft beer. You can also accompany the meal with a fresh green salad, which will add a contrast of textures and flavors.

This sauna chicken recipe is not just a meal, but a culinary experience. I invite you to try it and share the result with your loved ones. Cooking can be an art form, and this simple and quick recipe will give you the chance to become a true artist in the kitchen!