Citrus Vištiena (Citrus Chicken)
About Citrus Vištiena
Citrus Vištiena is a delightful fusion of Lithuanian culinary tradition and modern flavors, offering a fresh take on savory chicken dishes. The unique combination of citrusy notes with tender chicken has grown popular in many global kitchens. This dish traces its roots to Lithuania, where citrus fruits were brought by traders and integrated into local cuisine. Citrus Vištiena symbolizes a harmonious blend of tangy and savory elements, resonating well with those who appreciate subtle yet vivid flavors.
Ingredients
- Chicken (1 whole, approximately 4 pounds)
- Orange juice (1 cup freshly squeezed)
- Lemon juice (1/2 cup freshly squeezed)
- Lime juice (1/4 cup freshly squeezed)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Honey (2 tablespoons)
- Rosemary (2 sprigs, finely chopped)
- Thyme (1 tablespoon, chopped)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- Orange zest (1 tablespoon)
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon)
Preparation
Begin by preparing the chicken. Rinse it thoroughly under cool water and pat dry using paper towels. Ensure all excess moisture is removed as this will help in getting a crispy skin during cooking. Place the chicken in a large bowl.
In a separate bowl, combine orange juice, lemon juice, and lime juice to create the citrus marinade. Add in the olive oil, garlic, honey, chopped rosemary, and thyme. Stir well to fully integrate the flavors.
Marinating the Chicken
Pour the prepared citrus marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours, ideally overnight. The longer the marination time, the more flavorful and tender the chicken will be.
Cooking Process
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator and place it in a roasting pan.
Season the chicken generously with salt and black pepper. Sprinkle the orange zest and lemon zest over the top for an added aromatic touch.
Set the roasting pan in the oven and allow the chicken to roast for approximately 1.5 hours. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the cooking duration. It’s important to check the chicken periodically; if the skin is browning too fast, cover it lightly with aluminum foil.
The chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the juices run clear when pierced. For uniform cooking, consider basting the chicken with the juices in the pan halfway through the cooking time.
How to Enjoy
Once cooked, let the chicken rest on a cutting board for about 10 minutes before carving. This step ensures the juices redistribute throughout, resulting in juicy, tender meat.
Sliced chicken can be served alongside roasted vegetables, fresh greens, or a citrus-infused side dish to complement its flavors.
Drizzle the remaining pan juices over the carved chicken for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Citrus Vištiena makes for a visually stunning centerpiece, perfect for family gatherings or festive occasions.
Pair it with a light white wine or a refreshing herbal tea to balance the zesty elements of the dish. Enjoy the melding of traditional lithuanian tastes with a bright and summery citrus twist!