The godparents' hen

The godparents' chicken is a recipe that not only spreads the delicious aroma of a perfectly cooked bird but is also a symbol of wedding traditions in our communities. This preparation is a true art, a moment of joy and fun that brings together family and friends, being an integral part of wedding festivities. I invite you to discover step by step how to prepare this specialty, transforming a simple chicken into a centerpiece of a festive meal.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour (depending on the chosen method)
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

- 1 chicken (approximately 2 kg)
- 1 chicken head
- 100 ml oil
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Chicken spices (to preference)
- 1 rose
- Small daisies and chrysanthemums
- Spirandus (or other decorative flowers)
- A large piece of foil

Necessary utensils

- Large mixing bowl
- Rotisserie or 1-liter bottle
- Baking tray
- Oil for frying
- Toothpicks
- Knife and cutting board

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the chicken

1. Cleaning and washing the chicken: Start by thoroughly cleaning the chicken, ensuring that no internal remnants are left. Rinse it under cold running water to remove any impurities. This step is essential for achieving a tasty and healthy dish.

2. Preparing the spice mixture: In a bowl, mix the oil with salt, pepper, paprika, and chicken spices. This will be a flavorful rub that will enhance the taste and keep the meat juicy.

3. Rubbing the chicken: Use the mixture obtained to rub the chicken well, both inside and out. Make sure every nook is covered. Let the chicken sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.

Step 2: Cooking the chicken

4. Rotisserie method: If you have a rotisserie, secure the chicken on it and cook it over medium heat, turning it periodically to brown evenly. Ensure that it is well cooked and the juices run clear.

5. Bottle method: If you do not have a rotisserie, you can use a 1-liter bottle. Fill the bottle with water three-quarters full, insert the chicken into it, and place the bottle in a tray with added water. Bake in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius for about an hour. This trick will help maintain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out.

Step 3: Preparing the decoration

6. Frying the chicken head: In a pan, heat a little oil and fry the chicken head until it turns golden. This will add an extra touch of appearance and tradition to the dish.

7. Plating: Prepare a tray to place the spirandus and small flowers. After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Place the chicken on the platter, and you can secure the fried head with toothpicks.

8. Final decoration: Dress the chicken with flowers, ensuring it looks festive. You can place a rose in the beak, and with the foil, create a fan shape on one side of the chicken for an elegant look. This detail will add a touch of refinement.

Step 4: Serving

9. Ceremony moment: At traditional weddings, the moment when the chicken is brought to the table is accompanied by shouts and some customs. In some areas, a lit cigarette is offered in the chicken's beak, symbolizing fun and festivity. So, don't hesitate to enjoy this moment!

Useful tips

- Choose a quality chicken: Opt for a naturally raised chicken, as the meat will be juicier and tastier.
- Spices: You can experiment with different spices, such as garlic or rosemary, for a personalized taste.
- Serving: I recommend serving this dish alongside traditional sides, such as polenta or grilled vegetables. Additionally, a fresh white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another bird for this recipe?
Of course! You can adapt the recipe for duck or turkey as well. The taste will be different, but it will remain just as delicious.

2. How can I keep the chicken fresh?
If you do not consume it immediately, keep it in a covered container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated in the oven to regain its crispiness.

3. What are the nutritional benefits of chicken?
Chicken is an excellent source of protein, also containing B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism.

Recipe variations

- Stuffed chicken: You can stuff the chicken with a mixture of rice, mushrooms, and spices for added flavor.
- Baked chicken: Instead of using a rotisserie, you can roast the chicken in a tomato sauce with aromatic herbs for a Mediterranean taste.

In conclusion, the godparents' chicken is more than just a simple recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings emotion and tradition. I encourage you to try it and bring a bit of the magic of this tradition to your own table. With each preparation, you will create not just a dish but also precious memories alongside your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!