
Savory Feta-Brined Roast Chicken with Herb Sauce
Experience the irresistible flavor of a perfectly roasted chicken, brined in tangy feta and herbs. This recipe delivers succulent, crispy skin and tender meat, enhanced by a vibrant herb sauce. A delightful dish for any occasion.
Equipment Needed
- 9x13 inch Glass Baking Dish
- Blender/Food Processor
- Cheesecloth
- Instant-read Thermometer
- Large Baking Sheet
- Large Skillet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1.00 pieceWhole Chicken (3.5 lbs)(Spatchcock for even cooking)
- 0.25 kgFeta Cheese (crumbled)(Dairy-free feta option available)
- 4.00 cupsWater(For brine)
- 1.00 tablespoonBlack Peppercorns
- 5.00 sprigsOregano Sprigs
- 2.00 clovesGarlic Cloves(Smashed)
- 1.00 leafDried Bay Leaf
- 1.00 mediumLemon(Sliced)
- 1.00 tablespoonVegetable Oil
- 0.25 cupOlive Oil
- 1.00 pieceFresno Chile/Jalapeno(Thinly sliced, seeded if desired)
- 2.00 tablespoonsFresh Mint(Chopped)
- 2.00 tablespoonsFresh Parsley(Chopped)
- 2.00 tablespoonsScallions(Thinly sliced)
- 1.00 teaspoonPaprika
- 0.25 teaspoonDried Oregano
- 1.00 pieceCheesecloth(For Brining)
Instructions
Prepare the chicken: Spatchcock the chicken and remove the thigh bones.
Estimated time: 10 minutes
Make the brine: Blend feta and 2 cups of water until smooth. Add 2 more cups of water.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Brine the chicken: Place the chicken skin-side down in a baking dish. Cover with cheesecloth, add seasonings, and pour brine over it. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours.
Estimated time: 480 minutes
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Prepare for roasting: Remove chicken from brine, pat dry, and air-dry for 30-40 minutes.
Estimated time: 30 minutes
Sear the chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet. Sear chicken skin-side down until golden brown. Add weight to the skillet and transfer to the oven.
Estimated time: 10 minutes
Roast the chicken: Bake until internal temperature reaches 170°F (77°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Ensure skin is deep golden brown.
Estimated time: 35 minutes
Rest and prepare sauce: Remove from oven, let rest, and prepare herb sauce by combining olive oil, chile, mint, parsley, scallions, paprika, and oregano. Zest lemon and cut into wedges.
Estimated time: 15 minutes
Serve: Cut chicken into serving pieces. Arrange on a platter, top with herb sauce, and garnish with feta and extra mint. Serve with lemon wedges.
Estimated time: 10 minutes
Enjoy!
Estimated time: 5 minutes