Salt-Roasted Chicken

A succulent whole chicken encased in a salt and egg white crust, stuffed with fresh herbs and roasted to perfection. This classic technique ensures a moist and flavorful bird while the herbs infuse the meat from within.

4 servings
1 hr 40 min

Ingredients

  • 3 sprigs flat-leaf parsley
  • 3 sprigs marjoram
  • 3 sprigs tarragon
  • 1 whole chicken
  • 7 cups kosher salt
  • 12 large egg whites

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a 15x11" roasting pan with foil, if desired. Stuff herbs into chicken cavity; tie legs loosely together. Tuck wing tips under.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Place salt and egg whites in a large bowl. Use your hands to blend well, kneading to soften slightly, about 4 minutes. Pack 1/3 of salt mixture onto bottom of pan. Place chicken on top. Pack remaining salt mixture over and around chicken to completely enclose.

    10 min

  3. 3.

    Roast until a thermometer registers 165°F when inserted through the salt crust into thickest part of thigh, about 70 minutes. Let rest for 10 minutes. Crack salt with the back of a knife or wooden spoon. Remove salt and skin from chicken; transfer meat to a work surface. Carve and serve.

    80 min

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