| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 1 hr 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 487 | 23g | 6g | 24g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 20g | 2g | 40g | 1.1g |
When it comes to unveiling the magic of global cuisines in bite-sized goodness, a personal favorite recipe of mine is the Roasted Chicken with Indonesian Cinnamon and Honey Glaze. This dish enthralled me so profoundly that I felt the irresistible urge to share it with my fellow gourmets. The enticing blend of spices, the subtle sweetness of honey balanced with fresh citrus notes, and the robust, full-bodied flavor of the chicken transport your senses straight to the spice-scented markets of Indonesia.
The Genesis of the Recipe
As a native New Yorker, I am no stranger to the multifaceted culinary avenues of the city. However, the charm of Indonesian cuisine, with its delicate balance of sweet, sour, and spice, was an eye-opening revelation. The Roasted Chicken with Indonesian Cinnamon and Honey Glaze is the epitome of this experience, reflecting the remarkable similarity to the diverse tastes found in an NYC burger or bagel, yet retaining an unmistakable exotic touch.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
This sumptuous dish not only tingles your taste buds, but it also offers an array of health benefits, courtesy of its ingredients. The primary component, chicken, delivers high-quality protein essential for muscle growth and strength. The Indonesian cinnamon, or kayu manis, known for its therapeutic properties, aids in digestion, blood sugar control, and also has antioxidants. Honey serves as a natural sweetener, providing energy without the unhealthy aspects of refined sugar. Lastly, the ginger, garlic, and citrus fruits contribute essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Exploring the Possibilities
This very versatile Roasted Chicken with Indonesian Cinnamon and Honey Glaze recipe opens doors to numerous possibilities. It pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed jasmine rice or a Gado Gado salad for a complete meal. If you’re a bit more adventurous, wrap the chicken in lettuce for a low-carb, high flavor delight, closely resembling the popular Korean dish Samgyeopsal.
To me, this recipe is not merely about eating; it’s about living the narrative of a cuisine, enjoying the togetherness of a meal, and celebrating the dynamism of flavors, much like the city I call home.
What You’ll Need
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Indonesian cinnamon powder
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse your whole chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Step Two
In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, honey, Indonesian cinnamon powder, soy sauce, lime juice, orange juice, vegetable oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
Step Three
Using a brush, cover the entire surface of the chicken with the glaze mixture, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed.
Step Four
Place the chicken on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan. Pour any remaining glaze mixture into the bottom of the pan.
Step Five
Put the roasting pan in the preheated oven and allow the chicken to roast for around 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear. Reglaze the chicken with the mixture in the pan every 20-30 minutes.
Step Six
Once done, take the chicken out of the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. This rest period will help ensure that the juices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
Step Seven
Carve the chicken and serve along with lime wedges. Squeeze the lime juice over the chicken for additional tanginess. Enjoy your Roasted Chicken with Indonesian Cinnamon and Honey Glaze!
