What is chicken salt?
Chicken salt is a savory seasoning popular in Australia, sprinkled on hot chips. It typically contains salt, flavor enhancers, onion and garlic powder, and paprika, giving chips a rich, chicken-like flavor.
Chicken salt was developed in South Australia in the 1970s by Peter Brinkworth, who created it as a seasoning for rotisserie chicken. It soon became popular on chips.
Despite the name, many chicken salt products contain no chicken. The flavor comes from seasonings and yeast extracts.
A takeaway favorite
Fish and chip shops across Australia offer chicken salt on chips. Many customers ask for chicken salt instead of regular salt.
Chicken salt is also sold in supermarkets, and some restaurants have created gourmet versions.
It is often described as a uniquely Australian flavor. Visitors to Australia are often surprised when asked if they want chicken salt on their chips. It is also used on popcorn, potato wedges and roast vegetables. Brands such as Mitani are well known.
Some people sprinkle it on corn on the cob, eggs or avocado toast for extra flavor.