What is a crown of chicken?

A crown of chicken is a culinary preparation that consists of two chicken breasts that are left on the bone and shaped to create a visually appealing presentation. This technique often involves the breasts being tied together with kitchen twine or arranged in a circular fashion to resemble a crown, which is where the term comes from. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the dish but also helps in retaining moisture and flavor, making it a popular choice in fine dining. The bone-in method is essential because it contributes to the overall taste and juiciness of the meat.

In contrast, roasting a whole chicken, braising thighs, or deep frying wings involves different cuts of chicken and techniques that do not align with the specific presentation and preparation technique represented by a crown of chicken. Each of those methods highlights different culinary goals, such as flavor or texture, but they do not embody the unique characteristics that define a crown of chicken.