Oven-baked chicken

Chicken in a Jar - A Delicacy Cooked with Love

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Number of Servings: 4-6

Who doesn't love a tender and juicy chicken that melts in your mouth and entices with its inviting aromas? Today's recipe is one of those traditional methods, rich in history, that transforms a simple chicken into an unforgettable culinary experience. Chicken in a jar is more than just a recipe; it is a celebration of simplicity, natural ingredients, and a passion for cooking.

Ingredients you need:

- 1 whole chicken (approximately 2 kg)
- 100 g Cosmin spices (or other preferred spices)
- 2 tablespoons of mustard
- 100 ml oil (preferably olive)
- 50 ml water
- 2 tablespoons of dried thyme

Preparing the Chicken - Step by Step

1. Cleaning the Chicken: Start by washing the chicken well under a stream of cold water. Check for any feathers or down that have not been removed and carefully remove them. It is essential to have a perfectly clean chicken to achieve the best results.

2. Grinding the Spices: In a bowl, mix the Cosmin spices with the mustard and 50 ml of oil. This will form a flavorful paste that will coat the chicken, giving it a delicious and aromatic crust.

3. Seasoning the Chicken: Use your hands to massage the spice paste over the entire surface of the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. This step is crucial for infusing the meat with flavor.

4. Preparing the Jar: In an 800 ml jar, add 50 ml of water and 50 ml of oil. This will help keep the chicken juicy during baking, and the steam will keep the meat tender. Add the 2 tablespoons of dried thyme for an extra boost of flavor.

5. Securing the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken over the mouth of the jar, so it stands upright. This will allow the heat to circulate evenly around the chicken, resulting in juicy meat and a crispy crust.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (medium heat). Place the jar with the chicken in the oven and let it bake for 2 hours. This is the perfect time to relax while the delicious aromas spread throughout the house.

7. Serving: After 2 hours, carefully remove the jar from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The chicken will easily pull away from the bone, and the delicious juice will flow into the jar, creating a rich sauce. You can serve the chicken warm, alongside roasted peppers or other grilled vegetables.

Practical Tips and Variations

- Types of Meat: If you prefer, you can experiment with other types of meat, such as duck or turkey. Make sure to adjust the baking time according to the weight of the meat.

- Alternative Spices: Instead of Cosmin spices, you can use a combination of garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for a different taste.

- Suggested Sides: In addition to roasted peppers, try serving it with baked potatoes or a fresh salad for a refreshing contrast.

- For a Personal Touch: Add a few slices of lemon or orange to the jar to give the chicken a citrusy flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. It also contains B vitamins, which help with energy metabolism. Olive oil adds healthy fats rich in antioxidants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of jar?
Yes, make sure the chosen jar is heat-resistant and has an adequate capacity for the chicken.

2. Will the chicken be juicy enough?
Yes, the jar cooking method helps retain moisture and flavors, resulting in juicy chicken.

3. Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! Chicken in a jar is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Conclusion

This chicken in a jar is more than just a recipe; it is a culinary experience that combines simplicity with richness of flavors. Each bite will transport you to a world of aromas and textures, and the memories created around the table will stay with you forever. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by the flavors!