Chicken on the glass

Oven-Baked Chicken on a Beer Bottle with Potatoes - A Delicious and Captivating Recipe

If you want to enjoy a tasty meal that impresses and brings the traditional flavors of home cooking, the beer bottle chicken recipe is the perfect choice. This recipe is not only simple but also very versatile, allowing you to experiment with spices and side dishes. Plus, the chicken cooked this way becomes tender and juicy, while the potatoes develop a golden and appetizing crust.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 6-7 medium potatoes
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Oil (preferably olive oil) – about 2-3 tablespoons
- Chicken seasoning (salt, pepper, thyme, or other herbs of your choice)
- One empty beer bottle or water

Before we begin, let’s talk a bit about the main ingredients. Chicken is an excellent source of protein, and when cooked properly, it remains juicy and full of flavor. Potatoes, on the other hand, are a versatile staple, rich in carbohydrates and essential nutrients. Tomato paste adds a touch of acidity and sweetness, perfectly balancing the chicken's flavor.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preheat the oven:
Start by preheating the oven to 200°C. This is the perfect time to prepare your ingredients, so you have everything at hand.

2. Preparing the chicken:
Clean and wash the chicken inside and out. Make sure to remove any leftover organs and skin from the neck. Use a paper towel to dry it well. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust.

3. Seasoning:
Rub the chicken with oil so that the spices adhere well. Sprinkle salt, pepper, thyme, and any other preferred spices all over the chicken. Don’t hesitate to be generous with the spices, as they will enhance the flavor.

4. Preparing the beer bottle:
Take an empty beer bottle and remove the labels. Fill it halfway with water. This cooking technique will ensure a constant moisture level inside the chicken, resulting in tender and juicy meat.

5. Assembling:
Place the beer bottle in the center of a baking tray. Then, position the chicken on top of the bottle, ensuring it is stable. Around the chicken, cut the potatoes into quarters and place them in the tray. Toss them with 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste so that they are well coated.

6. Baking:
Add a little water to the tray so that the potatoes don’t dry out, and place the tray in the oven. Bake the chicken for about 1 hour or until the skin becomes golden and crispy, and the juices running from the chicken are clear.

7. Finishing:
When the chicken is ready, carefully remove the tray from the oven. Be careful! Don’t move the tray, as the water in the bottle may be hot. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving suggestions:
This oven-baked chicken is perfect served alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A side of garlic sauce or yogurt with herbs will add a touch of freshness. Additionally, a bottle of white wine or a cold beer pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Tips and variations:
- You can add vegetables such as carrots, onions, or bell peppers to the tray to enhance the flavor and add nutrients.
- Experiment with different spices, such as smoked paprika or garlic powder, to give your chicken a unique flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, while potatoes provide healthy carbohydrates and fiber. This recipe is relatively low in calories, with approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the portion of chicken and the oil used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey or even vegetables for a vegetarian option.

2. How can I store leftovers?
The cooked chicken stores well in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days.

3. Can I use non-alcoholic beer?
Yes, you can use water or other non-alcoholic beverages for this recipe. The idea is to maintain moisture during baking.

In conclusion, oven-baked chicken on a beer bottle with potatoes is a simple and delicious recipe that will bring a smile to your loved ones' faces. Experiment with the ingredients and find the combinations you enjoy the most. Cooking is an art, and like any artist, every chef should leave their personal touch on each dish!