Marks & Spencer
Marks & Spencer British Free Range Corn Fed Whole Chicken
What it is
This is a whole chicken, raised free-range and fed a corn-based diet. It is sourced from British farms and is a staple for many home cooks. The chicken is presented whole, ready for preparation and cooking. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from simple roasts to more elaborate meals. The quality of the feed and the free-range environment are often highlighted as factors contributing to the chicken's flavor and texture.
How people cook with it
A whole chicken is a cornerstone of many family meals and can be prepared in numerous ways to suit different tastes and occasions.
- Roasting for a Sunday dinner
- Shredded for tacos or sandwiches
- Used in hearty stews
- Poached for salads
To prepare, remove the chicken from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a crispier skin when cooking. You can season the cavity with herbs, garlic, or lemon for added flavor. For roasting, place the chicken in a roasting pan and cook in a preheated oven until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches a safe level. Leftover cooked chicken can be refrigerated and used in other dishes throughout the week.
How it differs from similar foods
Corn-fed chickens often have a slightly richer flavor and a golden hue to their skin and meat compared to chickens fed on a standard diet. The free-range aspect means the birds have access to outdoor space, which can influence their overall quality and development.
How to keep the rest
Refrigerate the raw chicken immediately upon purchase. Store it on the bottom shelf of your refrigerator to prevent any juices from dripping onto other foods. Ensure it is well-wrapped or in its original packaging. It is best to cook the chicken within a few days of purchase.