Baked chicken

Baked Chicken: A Flavorful and Savory Delight

Who doesn't love the smell of a dish slowly cooked in the oven, with aromas that entice the senses? Today, I invite you to discover a classic yet flavorful recipe: baked chicken. This recipe, which combines simple ingredients with traditional cooking techniques, promises to bring a special dish to your table, perfect for a special occasion or a family dinner.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
- Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary Ingredients
- 1 chicken (approximately 3.3-4.4 lbs)
- 1 head of garlic
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1 orange
- A bunch of fresh green mint
- 1-2 tablespoons of coriander seeds or allspice
- Salt, to taste
- 600 ml of white wine

Brief History
Baked chicken is a traditional dish found in various culinary cultures. Over time, it has been considered a symbol of hospitality and family traditions, served at holidays and special occasions. This dish stands out for its intense flavors, resulting from the combination of fresh ingredients with slow cooking techniques.

Ingredient Details
- Chicken: Choose a young chicken with tender and juicy meat for the best results. If possible, opt for an organically raised chicken, as it will have a much more pleasant taste.
- Garlic: Using a whole head of garlic will add an enticing aroma to the dish, and the flavors will blend perfectly with the other ingredients.
- Green mint: Adds a fresh and comforting note. Make sure to use fresh mint, not dried, to benefit from all its flavors.
- White wine: Choose a quality wine, as it will directly influence the final taste of the dish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Technique

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities from its skin.

2. Preparing the garlic paste:
Peel the head of garlic and crush the cloves in a mortar or using a food processor. Mix the crushed garlic with the lemon juice and orange juice.

3. Adding the spices:
To the garlic mixture, add the finely chopped mint, coriander seeds or allspice, and salt to taste. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous paste.

4. Arranging in the baking dish:
In a deep baking dish, pour the garlic mixture, then place the chicken on top. If the chicken doesn’t fit in the dish, you can place it on a special cooking rack.

5. Adding the wine:
Pour the 600 ml of white wine into the dish, making sure to cover the chicken well. This will help tenderize the meat and develop the flavors.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and let the chicken bake for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. During baking, occasionally check the liquid level in the dish. If it decreases too much, add a little wine to maintain moisture.

7. Finishing the dish:
When the chicken is well browned and tender, remove it from the oven. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting. This will allow the juices to redistribute in the meat.

Serving Suggestions
Baked chicken is best served alongside simple sides, such as roasted potatoes or a fresh salad. You can also add rice or couscous to absorb the delicious sauce left in the dish. Don’t forget a glass of white wine, which will perfectly complement the meal.

Possible Variations
If you want to experiment with flavors, you can add vegetables such as carrots, onions, or potatoes to the dish. They will cook alongside the chicken and absorb its flavors, turning the dish into a true feast.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking.
- How can I tell if the chicken is cooked enough? The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone. Use a cooking thermometer; the internal temperature should be about 75°C.
- What other spices can I use? Experiment with herbs like rosemary or thyme to add a different note.

Nutritional Benefits
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chicken meat is rich in vitamin B, which helps maintain the health of the nervous system. Additionally, garlic is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Calories
A serving of baked chicken contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of wine and the preparation of the sides.

I invite you to try this baked chicken recipe, enjoy every bite, and share the experience with your loved ones. It is a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also combines tradition with innovation in the kitchen. Bon appétit!