Chicken on the bottle

Recipe for Chicken on a Glass: A Light and Tasty Delight

Who doesn't love a tender, flavorful, and juicy chicken that 'flies' off the platter? This glass chicken recipe is simple yet highly effective, providing you with a delicious dish perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the baking time ranges from 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your preferences. The result? A delightful serving for 4-6 people.

Necessary Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 - 2 kg)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (or sunflower oil)
- Spices to taste (salt, pepper, sweet paprika, garlic powder, herbs)
- 1 bottle of beer (preferably 0.5 liters) filled with water
- 2-3 cups of water for the baking tray

A Bit of History:

This technique of preparing chicken on a glass is inspired by ancient culinary traditions, where cooking over an open fire or in a wood-fired oven was an art. The idea of using a bottle to create steam and keep the chicken juicy has been popularized in many kitchens around the world. This method not only allows the flavors to penetrate but also helps achieve a crispy skin, desired by all.

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Cleaning and Preparing the Chicken:
Start by trimming the chicken wings and washing it well under cold running water. It is essential to remove any impurities to obtain a clean and healthy dish.

2. Marinating the Flavors:
In a bowl, combine the oil with the chosen spices. We recommend using a combination of salt, pepper, sweet paprika for a more intense flavor, garlic powder, and herbs such as rosemary or thyme. Rub the chicken with this mixture, ensuring that every part is well coated with spices.

3. Preparing the Tray:
In a baking tray, place the beer bottle filled with water in the center. This will be the support for the chicken during baking. It will allow the steam to penetrate the meat, keeping it juicy.

4. Adding Water:
Add 2-3 cups of water to the tray around the bottle. This will help create a humid environment in the oven, essential for achieving tender chicken.

Baking the Chicken:

5. Preheating the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Once heated, place the tray with the chicken in the oven. Baking will take between 2 and 2.5 hours, depending on the size of the chicken and how crispy you want it to be.

6. Oven Indulgence:
Occasionally, rotate the beer bottle to ensure even baking. Use a spoon to baste the chicken with the juices from the tray. It is important to wait for the skin to start browning before doing this, to allow the spices to adhere better.

7. Finishing the Dish:
When the chicken has reached a golden and crispy hue, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy meat.

Serving and Suggestions:

This chicken on a glass pairs perfectly with a fresh garlic sauce, which will add a note of freshness to the dish. You can also accompany the meal with a side of grilled vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other beverages instead of beer?
Yes, you can use a bottle of mineral water or apple juice for a different flavor.

2. How can I make the chicken spicier?
Add chili flakes to the spice mixture for a more intense taste.

3. What other recipes can I try with the glass technique?
This technique can also be applied to other types of meat, such as duck or turkey, yielding similar results.

Nutritional Benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of protein and contains essential nutrients such as vitamin B6, phosphorus, and niacin. The dish is also low in fat, due to the cooking method that allows excess fat to drain away.

Personal Note:
I like to add a few slices of lemon or orange inside the chicken for a subtle citrus flavor. This will provide a fresh aroma and perfectly complement the spices.

Now that you have all the necessary details, you are ready to indulge in a glass chicken, easy to prepare and absolutely delicious, which will surely become a quick favorite among family and friends. Happy cooking!