Chicken on a bed of salt

Delightful Salt Bed Chicken Recipe with Potatoes - A Simple and Quick Delicacy

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Servings: 4

History and Story

The salt bed chicken dish is a traditional recipe that combines cooking technique with a simple yet highly effective ingredient: salt. This cooking method has been used over time to enhance flavors and retain the juiciness of the meat. Not only does the chicken become tender and flavorful, but the potatoes cooked alongside also acquire a delicious texture and unmistakable taste. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends.

Ingredients

- 4 whole chicken thighs
- 1 kg coarse salt (sea salt or cooking salt)
- 4 medium potatoes, unpeeled
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon curry
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika or chili (to taste)

Practical Tip: Make sure the salt is coarse enough to create a stable bed. Fine salt will not work as well.

Cooking Steps

1. Preparing the Baking Tray
Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. Prepare a large baking tray by lining the bottom with parchment paper. Add a generous layer of salt about 1 cm thick. This salt bed will help retain moisture and flavor the meat.

2. Seasoning the Chicken Thighs
In a bowl, mix the pepper, curry, oregano, basil, and, if desired, paprika or chili. Use this mixture to season the chicken thighs on all sides. Do not add extra salt, as the chicken will absorb enough salt from the salt bed.

3. Preparing the Potatoes
Wash the potatoes well, leaving the skin on, and cut them in half or quarters. Place them in the tray next to the chicken thighs. Sprinkle a little oregano on top of the potatoes for added flavor.

4. Baking in the Oven
Place the tray in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes, then carefully turn the chicken thighs and potatoes. This step is essential for achieving even browning. Allow to bake for another 30 minutes or until the chicken is golden and crispy.

5. Finishing the Dish
Once the chicken is ready, remove the tray from the oven. Use a spoon or knife to remove excess salt from the meat and potatoes. This step is important to avoid an overly salty taste.

6. Serving
This salt bed chicken pairs perfectly with a creamy tzatziki sauce or a flavorful garlic dip. These sauces not only complement the dish but also add a touch of freshness.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health. Potatoes, on the other hand, are a good source of complex carbohydrates that provide energy. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, with a moderate calorie content (approximately 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the amount of sauce served).

Variations and Suggestions

To add a personal touch to the dish, you can try:

- Adding other vegetables: Chopped carrots or onions can be added to the tray to diversify the dish.
- Varied spices: Experiment with other herbs and spices, such as rosemary or thyme, to achieve different flavors.
- Alternative serving: This dish pairs excellently with a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this method can also be applied to other types of meat, such as pork chops or fish, but cooking time may vary.

2. What sauces pair best?
In addition to tzatziki and garlic dip, a yogurt sauce with mint or a spicy tomato sauce would perfectly complement the dish.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain the chicken's crispy texture.

4. Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
This recipe can be adapted for diets by using salt-free spices and choosing healthier cooking methods.

Salt bed chicken is a simple and effective recipe that will bring a touch of tradition and flavor to your kitchen. Experiment with the ingredients and feel free to share the results with your loved ones! Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create delicious memories. Enjoy!