A culinary educator and product developer has found the secret to perfect roast chicken: a simple stainless steel rod. The PoulTree Chicken Rod suspends the bird above a cast iron pan, allowing for even browning and crispy skin.
The rod, weighing about half a pound and 15 inches long, fits into the handle of a Lodge cast iron skillet or similar pan. By hanging the chicken, radiant heat from the pan and circulating hot air ensure even cooking, while steam evaporates quickly for crisp skin.
The user recommends roasting at 425°F for one hour, seasoning generously with a dry rub and air-drying the chicken in the fridge for a day or two. The pan captures juices for gravy or vegetables, which can be roasted separately after the chicken rests.
For best results, avoid using convection settings and do not cook vegetables in the pan during roasting, as excess steam prevents crispy skin. Instead, cook vegetables in the drippings while the chicken rests for 15 minutes.
The PoulTree also works on grills, and an XL version is available for turkeys. The rod is easy to set up and clean, making it a reliable tool for family dinners.
