Easy Salt Baked Chicken (简易盐焗鸡)

Step 1

For the Spice mix: Combine the salt, sugar, ginger powder, five spice powder, and turmeric in a small bowl. Stir to mix well. Pour in the Shaoxing wine. Stir again to dissolve as much salt and sugar as possible. Set it aside to sit while you prepare the chicken.

Step 2

To prepare the chicken: Cut the chicken along both sides of the backbone one side at a time using a pair of kitchen scissors. Flip the chicken over and flatten out the legs and wings. Press down on the center of the chicken breasts using your hands, until the breastbone cracks and the chicken lays flat. Tug the wing tips under the drumsticks.

Step 3

Preheat the oven to 400° (200°C) convection (highly recommended, for a crispier skin) or 425°F (224°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the green onion and ginger slices in the center, to form a bed for the chicken.

Step 4

Place the chicken skin side down. Spread a thin layer of the spice mix and rub until it’s even. Transfer the chicken onto the prepared green onion and ginger, skin side up this time. Rub the seasonings over the skin. You will have leftover spice mix if using a smaller chicken.

Step 5

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the juices run clear when you probe the thickest part of the thigh and breast. Or the meat should read 165°F (74°C) if using a thermometer.

Step 6

Once the chicken is baked, let rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve over steamed rice as a main dish.