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Air-Chilled Chicken: A 2026 Trend

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/01/20/air-chilled-chicken-a-2026-trend.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, January 20th 2026 at 7:54 GMT by Food & Wine
      Locale: UNITED STATES, FRANCE

The Foundation: Chicken Selection in a Changing Landscape

One of Garten's fundamental points is the importance of selecting a quality bird. Her preference for air-chilled chickens highlights this. In 2026, this distinction is even more crucial. While water-chilled chickens remain prevalent due to their lower production cost, consumer awareness of the subtle differences has spurred a rise in sustainably and ethically raised poultry, often employing air-chilling. This method avoids immersion in chlorinated water, preserving more natural flavor and preventing the chicken from becoming waterlogged. Look for labels indicating pasture-raised, organic, or explicitly air-chilled. Many local farms now offer pre-orders for air-chilled birds, emphasizing regional sourcing and traceability - a trend expected to continue its growth.

Trussing: Beyond Aesthetics, Towards Even Cooking

The often-skipped step of trussing - tying the legs together - isn't just for presentation. Garten's simple trussing technique helps ensure more even cooking. While complex trussing methods exist, her straightforward approach focuses on practical results. The aim is to keep the legs close to the body, preventing them from drying out faster than the breast meat. In 2026, some cooks are experimenting with alternative methods like using foil "crutches" under the breast to achieve similar results, especially for smaller chickens. This allows the breast to cook faster without overcooking the legs.

Seasoning: A Flavor Symphony, Layered with Intent

Seasoning is where personal preference shines, but Garten's approach provides a solid foundation. The generous application of kosher salt and black pepper is non-negotiable - salt not only flavors but also helps draw out moisture, contributing to crispy skin. Her addition of lemon quarters and fresh herbs tucked under the skin is a stroke of genius. In 2026, expect to see more experimentation with herb blends, incorporating influences from global cuisines. For example, a combination of thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika can add a subtle, smoky depth. Citrus variations, beyond lemon, like blood orange or Meyer lemon, are also gaining popularity, lending unique aromatic notes. Additionally, the use of citrus zest, finely grated, further intensifies the citrus flavor.

Roasting: The Science of Crispiness and Moisture

Garten's high-heat, then lower-heat roasting method is designed to maximize skin crispness while retaining moisture. The initial blast of heat (425?F/220?C) renders the fat under the skin, which is crucial for achieving that golden-brown, crackling crust. Reducing the temperature to 350?F/175?C allows the chicken to cook through without burning. Advances in oven technology in 2026, with features like convection cooking and humidity control, can further refine this process. Convection can improve heat circulation for even crispier skin. Many modern ovens now include settings to automatically adjust temperature and time based on the weight of the chicken, removing some guesswork.

Resting: The Often-Overlooked Crucial Step

Finally, the rest period is paramount. Allowing the chicken to rest, loosely tented with foil, for at least 15-20 minutes before carving is essential. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful final product.

In 2026, Ina Garten's core roast chicken principles remain timeless, providing a framework for a delicious and comforting meal. By adapting these principles to incorporate modern sourcing, ingredient exploration, and technological advancements, home cooks can truly elevate their roast chicken game.