Trussing a chicken (or any other bird) ensures that the legs and wings are firmly fastened against the body. This helps the chicken maintain its shape and cook evenly without drying out any of the extremities.

What is the purpose of trussing poultry?

Trussing a chicken helps ensure that everything cooks evenly — and that the wings and legs don't burn. When you don't truss your chicken, the breast cavity can stay open allowing too much hot air to circulate inside of it. That dries out the breast before the thighs and legs are properly cooked.

Why is trussing a bird done before cooking it?

Trussing means to tie the chicken snugly with kitchen twine so that the wings and legs stay close to the body. ... Trussing a chicken also helps prevent the tips of the wings and drumsticks from burning, and makes the cooked chicken look more attractive when you serve it.