Where “Chicken Salt” Comes From
Chicken salt is a seasoning blend of salt and savoury flavourings, sprinkled on hot chips in Australian takeaway shops. It tastes savoury and slightly sweet, and it’s a big part of the Australian chip experience.
It’s sold in supermarkets, and many people keep a shaker at home.
“Salt or chicken salt on your chips?”
How Aussies Actually Use It
You’ll hear it at the fish and chip shop, where “salt or chicken salt?” is a standard question.
In Real Life
Ask for chips in many Australian takeaway shops and you’ll hear “Salt or chicken salt?”. Chicken salt is a yellow-orange seasoning, and fans say regular salt tastes plain by comparison. It also goes on wedges, popcorn and roast potatoes at home. Different brands taste a little different, and people have strong opinions about their favourite.
Quick Questions
What is chicken salt made of?
Mostly salt with savoury flavourings and spices. Recipes differ by brand.
Is there chicken in chicken salt?
It’s named for its flavour. Some blends contain chicken-flavour ingredients, so check the label if you avoid animal products.
Say It Like an Aussie
Say it: CHIK-in SOLT.
In conversation:
- Can I have chicken salt on my chips?
- The chips are better with chicken salt.
- I’ll have a scoop with chicken salt.
Good to know: Chicken salt is usually a blend of salt and savoury flavourings. Check the label if you avoid certain ingredients.
See also: Chiko Roll, Potato Scallop, Snag
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