Chicken Halves Piquant
Spicy and tangy roasted chicken halves with lime and tarragon, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chicken halves, skin side down, in a shallow foil-lined pan.
- Combine salt, Tabasco, lime juice, salad oil, and dried tarragon to make the marinade.
- Brush the marinade over the chicken halves.
- Bake in a moderate oven (375°F) for 45 to 50 minutes.
- Turn the chicken after the first 25 minutes of baking.
- Brush the chicken occasionally with the remaining sauce during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if time allows. You can substitute lime juice with lemon juice for a different citrus note. If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the Tabasco or use a milder hot sauce. Consider using fresh tarragon if available for a more vibrant taste. This dish pairs nicely with sides like Fried Corn-On-The-Cob or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Halves Piquant with a side of roasted vegetables or a light quinoa salad for a balanced meal. This dish also goes well with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade. For dessert, consider pairing it with Adirondack Blueberry Pie for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium power, but be cautious to avoid drying it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Halves Piquant contains roughly 40 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 984mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole chicken instead of halves?
Yes, you can use a whole chicken; just adjust the cooking time. A whole chicken will require about 1 to 1.5 hours to cook at 375°F. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Is it possible to grill the chicken instead of baking?
Absolutely! Grilling the marinated chicken halves over medium heat will impart a lovely smoky flavor. Grill for about 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What can I do with leftover marinade?
It's best to discard any leftover marinade that has come in contact with raw chicken for safety. However, if you set aside some marinade before adding the chicken, you can use it as a baste or sauce after boiling it for a few minutes to ensure it's safe to eat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).