Chicken on the glass

Chicken on a Bottle – A Delicious and Unique Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a world full of sophisticated recipes, chicken on a bottle stands out as a simple yet exceptionally delicious choice. This cooking method not only brings a wonderful flavor to the meat, but also presents an innovative display on the table that will impress your guests. The origins of this cooking technique are shrouded in mystery, but it is certain that it has been used over time to achieve juicy meat with a crispy and flavorful skin. So, let’s get to work!

Ingredients

- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter for extra flavor)
- Salt (approximately 1-2 tablespoons, depending on preference)
- Chicken spices (for example, sweet paprika, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, or herbs de Provence for a more complex taste)
- 1 bottle of beer (approximately 330 ml) or water (for a non-alcoholic version)

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken under a stream of cold water. Make sure it is well cleaned and that no feathers or unpleasant remnants remain. After washing, pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess water.

2. Seasoning: Rub the chicken with olive oil, ensuring it is evenly coated, both inside and out. This step is important as the oil will help achieve a crispy and golden skin. Sprinkle salt and the chosen spices, rubbing them gently into the meat to intensify the flavors.

3. Preparing the bottle: Fill the beer bottle with water (or beer if you want to add a hint of bitterness) halfway. This will act as a support for the chicken, as well as a source of steam that will keep the meat juicy during baking.

4. Assembling the chicken: Place the chicken on the bottle filled with water, ensuring it is stable. If the bottle is unstable, you can use a baking tray with edges to support it.

5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Position the tray with the chicken on the bottle in a larger container filled with water (about 1-2 cm deep) to prevent the chicken from burning. Bake for approximately 2 hours, checking periodically that the water in the larger tray does not decrease. Adding hot water if necessary will maintain a constant temperature and prevent the chicken from drying out.

6. Finalizing: After two hours, carefully remove the tray from the oven and check if the chicken is cooked. The meat should be tender and juicy, with clear juices flowing. If you want a crispier crust, you can leave it in the oven for another 10-15 minutes at a higher temperature.

Serving

Chicken on a bottle is perfectly served alongside grilled vegetables or a creamy mashed potato. A fresh seasonal salad can add a wonderful contrast and will complete the meal perfectly. And don’t forget, a cold beer can be the ideal accompaniment to enhance the flavors of this delicious dish!

Personal Tip

For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a few slices of lemon or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the bottle. These will infuse the meat with subtle flavors, transforming your chicken into a true delicacy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! This method also works for other types of meat, such as duck or turkey. The baking time will vary depending on the weight of the meat.

2. What should I do if the chicken is not cooked enough?
If after two hours the chicken is not fully cooked, you can leave it in the oven for another 15-30 minutes, checking periodically.

3. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Absolutely! You can season the chicken a few hours ahead or even a day in advance, leaving it in the refrigerator. The flavors will intensify, providing an even better taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. It also contains B vitamins, which support metabolism and the health of the nervous system. The cooking process on the bottle allows the natural juices to be retained, resulting in healthier and tastier meat.

Possible Variations

- Honey and mustard chicken: Add a marinade of honey and mustard for a sweet and tangy flavor.
- Spicy chicken: Use spicy seasonings, such as hot pepper or chili, to give an extra kick to the dish.

In conclusion, chicken on a bottle is a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe that will add flavor and originality to your meals. By experimenting with different spices and sides, you can transform this dish into a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share your experience with loved ones!