Unveil the secrets of ottolenghi’s mouthwatering lemon chicken recipe
What To Know
- Add a touch of heat by including a teaspoon of chili flakes or ground cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Drizzle the chicken with a mixture of honey and lemon juice before roasting for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Complement the lemon chicken with sides that balance the flavors, such as rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Embark on a culinary adventure with Ottolenghi’s renowned lemon chicken recipe, a delectable masterpiece that tantalizes taste buds with its vibrant flavors. This dish transports you to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, where the tangy zest of lemons harmonizes with aromatic herbs and succulent chicken.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
Gather the finest ingredients to create this culinary masterpiece:
- 1 large free-range chicken (about 1.5 kg), cut into 8 pieces
- 125 ml olive oil
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 8 garlic cloves, crushed
- 3 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- Salt and black pepper
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
1. Marinate the Chicken: Combine the olive oil, lemon zest and juice, garlic, herbs, and spices in a large bowl. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
2. Roast the Chicken: Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fan-forced). Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on a roasting tray. Drizzle with any remaining marinade. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
3. Make the Sauce: While the chicken roasts, make the sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining marinade with 100 ml water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
4. Serve the Dish: Remove the chicken from the oven and drizzle with the sauce. Serve with your favorite sides, such as rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Variations: A Canvas for Creativity
- Spicy Lemon Chicken: Add a touch of heat by including a teaspoon of chili flakes or ground cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Lemon-Herb Chicken: Enhance the herbaceous flavor by adding chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or basil to the marinade.
- Honey-Lemon Chicken: Drizzle the chicken with a mixture of honey and lemon juice before roasting for a sweet and tangy twist.
Tips for Success
- Use a Whole Chicken: For the best flavor, use a whole free-range chicken.
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Roast to Perfection: Roast the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to ensure it is cooked through.
- Serve with Sides: Complement the lemon chicken with sides that balance the flavors, such as rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Health Benefits: A Nourishing Delicacy
- High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Lemons provide vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts immunity.
- Low in Fat: This dish uses olive oil instead of butter, reducing the fat content while adding flavor.
The Joy of Cooking: A Culinary Exploration
Experiment with this versatile lemon chicken recipe and discover the endless possibilities it offers. Whether you prefer spicy, herbaceous, or sweet variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of a whole chicken?
A: Yes, but reduce the roasting time to 25-30 minutes.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
A: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 75°C (165°F) when done.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Roast it just before serving.
