Tuscan Brick Chicken with Mediterranean Flavors

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €21.77 · €3.63/serving

• 1 (3- to 31/2-pound) free-range chickenEst. price €10.50–€16.00
• 8 cups purified waterEst. price €0.20–€0.60
• 2/3 cup high-quality sea saltEst. price €1.80–€3.50
• 2/3 cup organic cane sugarEst. price €1.50–€3.00
• 4 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced lengthwise (smash with the flat side of a knife to release flavor)Est. price €0.20–€0.50
• 2 sprigs of fresh thymeEst. price €0.80–€1.50
• 2 sprigs of fragrant rosemaryEst. price €0.80–€1.50
• Kosher salt for seasoningEst. price €0.05–€0.15
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepperEst. price €0.02–€0.08
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for rubbingEst. price €0.80–€1.80

Steps

1. 1

   Start by cleaning the chicken, ensuring to remove any giblets and excess fat. Create the brine mixture in a nonreactive container, then fully immerse the chicken in it. Allow the chicken to brine in the refrigerator for a minimum of 2 to 4 hours or ideally overnight. After brining, thoroughly rinse and dry both inside and outside of the chicken before letting it reach room temperature.

2. 2

   Start by creating a high heat environment in a wood-fired oven, reaching temperatures between 475°F to 500°F. Shift the embers to the back left side of the oven and introduce a small log to sustain gentle flames. The oven needs to stabilize at around 450°F before proceeding. Wrap four bricks tightly in aluminum foil for later use.

3. 3

   Begin by laying the chicken breast side down on a clean surface. Using poultry shears, cut along the backbone lengthwise to split the bird open. Flatten the chicken by pressing down with your hand to break the bone. Flip the chicken over so that the skin side is facing up, then gently lift the skin from each breast and thigh to create small pockets. Insert herb sprigs and garlic slivers into these pockets. Season generously with salt and cracked pepper, then massage with olive oil to coat evenly.

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• Cultural note

  Tuscan Brick Chicken is inspired by traditional Tuscan cuisine known for its simplicity and emphasis on high-quality ingredients like extra-virgin olive oil and fresh herbs. The use of Mediterranean flavors like garlic, rosemary, and olive oil reflects the rich culinary heritage of the region.

• Seasonal note

  This dish is best made in the summer when tomatoes, shallots, rosemary, and thyme are in season, providing fresh and vibrant flavors to the dish.

• Health note

  Tuscan Brick Chicken is a protein-rich dish with 25g of protein per serving, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal. It also contains vitamins A and C from the tomatoes, shallots, and herbs, offering immune-boosting properties.