Perfectly cooked chicken with crispy skin from the grill
Chicken – sounds simple at first, right? But anyone who has ever had the pleasure of enjoying a masterfully prepared chicken – crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside – knows: it's a true culinary art. And this art has many facets! Whether over glowing coals, in a kamado grill, in a home oven, or in a modern air fryer – each method holds its own secrets. Join me today on a flavorful journey through the multifaceted world of chicken – personal, experimental, and incredibly delicious!
The types: Which chicken suits you?
Not all chicken is the same. The taste and texture vary significantly depending on its origin. Here's a brief overview:
Corn-fed chicken: My absolute favorite! The corn-fed meat gives it a particularly juicy texture and a subtle sweet flavor. Ideal for use on the grill or in a kamado.Free-range chicken: Characterized by a more intense flavor and firmer meat. Particularly suitable for oven cooking.Organic chicken: Intensely flavorful and sustainably produced. Cooked at low temperatures, it optimally develops its tender texture.Tip: Make sure your chicken is well-hung. This will improve the tenderness of the meat.
The preparation methods: fire, embers, oven or high-tech?
Hanging over the fire – the rustic classic
There's hardly anything more enjoyable than cooking chicken over an open flame. The constant turning and basting not only creates a flavorful crust but also intensifies the flavor.
Insider tip: Use a marinade of honey, lemon juice, and herbs. The honey caramelizes when heated, while the lemon adds a fresh touch.Difficulty level: Medium – pay particular attention to the temperature to avoid burning the skin.About charcoal – the BBQ classic
No BBQ would be complete without a flavorful, smoky chicken. Whether sliced flat as a spatchcock or traditionally cooked on a rotisserie, charcoal imparts a distinctive flavor to the meat.
My tip For crispy skin: Generously salt the skin beforehand and let it air dry. This draws out moisture and results in an especially crispy crust.Extras: For a subtle smoky flavor, experiment with wood chips such as hickory or applewood.In the Kamado Grill – the all-rounder
The Kamado grill is ideal for even cooking. Thanks to its ceramic walls, it maintains optimal heat, whether you're smoking slowly or grilling quickly.
Trick: Place a bowl of water or beer under the chicken to keep it extra moist.Cooking time: A whole chicken needs about 1.5 hours at 160°C.In the oven – the simple solution
For days when you're not in the mood to experiment, the oven is a great option. It's a simple and reliable way to prepare a delicious chicken anytime.
Crunchy tip: Coat the skin with a mixture of butter, paprika and garlic to make it golden brown and tasty.Trick: For extra crispy skin, place the chicken under the grill for the last 10 minutes.In the Air Fryer – the modern hero
Initially skeptical, I discovered that the Air Fryer truly surprises me. It cooks chicken in no time, making it crispy on the outside and incredibly juicy on the inside.
Perfect for: Chicken thighs or smaller portions.Time: Half a chicken will be ready in about 25-30 minutes.Secret ingredient: A marinade of yogurt and spices makes the pieces particularly tender.Tips and tricks for the perfect chicken
The right marinade: A good marinade is essential for flavor. The core of my marinades is olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs, complemented by the sweetness of honey or maple syrup.
The perfect skin: Always dry the chicken thoroughly before fermenting it and brush it regularly with butter or oil to keep it moist.
Measure core temperature: Regardless of the cooking method, the internal temperature is crucial for juicy meat. It should reach 75°C at the thickest part of the meat (boneless).
Let it rest after cooking: Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the meat tender.
My conclusion: Chicken is more versatile than you think. Whether cooked rustically over a fire, traditionally in the oven, or modernly in the air fryer – it remains a culinary all-rounder. Try different methods and find your favorite!
Do you have any insider tips for preparing the perfect chicken? I welcome any comments and am always open to new ideas! And if you're looking for inspiration or accessories for your next chicken adventure, feel free to visit my shop.
