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- Prepare the Chicken (Spatchcock)
The first step is spatchcocking the chicken—don’t worry, it sounds more complicated than it is! Here’s how you do it:
Place the chicken breast-side down on a clean cutting board.
Using a sharp pair of kitchen shears or a knife, cut along both sides of the backbone. This is the hardest part, but just follow the rib cage and remove the backbone completely. You can save it for making chicken stock if you’d like!
Once the backbone is removed, flip the chicken over and press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten the bird. You should hear a satisfying crack as the breastbone breaks, which will help the chicken lay flat for even cooking.
- Season the Chicken
Now that your chicken is spatchcocked, it’s time to season it generously.
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up during cooking.
Rub the chicken all over with olive oil or melted butter. This will help the skin get extra crispy and golden.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. If you’re using dried herbs like thyme or rosemary, sprinkle them on as well.
Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the chicken for a burst of fresh citrus flavor, and then stuff the used lemon halves inside the cavity of the chicken, along with a few smashed garlic cloves (optional).
- Roast the Chicken
Now it’s time to cook your chicken to crispy-skinned perfection.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will ensure that the skin crisps up beautifully.
Place the spatchcocked chicken on a rimmed baking sheet, cast iron skillet, or a roasting pan, breast-side up. If you want to make the presentation even better, you can place the chicken on a rack to elevate it slightly, allowing air to circulate around the chicken.
Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh (without touching the bone). The skin should be golden and crispy, and the juices should run clear.
Halfway through the cooking process, you can baste the chicken with melted butter or olive oil for extra flavor and a more golden color.
- Rest the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step is important because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that your chicken remains tender and juicy. - Carve and Serve
After the chicken has rested, it’s time to carve. The spatchcock method makes this easier, as the chicken is already flattened. Simply cut through the thighs, legs, and breasts, and serve with your favorite sides.
For a special touch, garnish the chicken with some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme, and serve with lemon wedges for extra citrus zing.
Tips for Perfect Spatchcock Chicken
Dry the Skin: Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help ensure the skin crisps up properly.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid overcooking, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the meat.
Get Creative with Seasoning: While garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika are classic choices, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Cajun seasoning, lemon zest, chili powder, or even a bit of curry powder can bring exciting flavors to your chicken.
Don’t Skip the Resting: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after roasting to ensure that the juices stay locked in, making for a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If you have a cast iron skillet, it’s an excellent choice for roasting spatchcock chicken. It helps achieve an even, crispy crust while also allowing the bird to cook more evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Spatchcock chicken is versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to round out your meal:
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts complement the crispy chicken perfectly.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser.
Grilled Asparagus or Green Beans: Lightly charred vegetables with a squeeze of lemon are a refreshing and healthy side.
Cauliflower Rice or Quinoa: For a lighter option, cauliflower rice or quinoa makes a great accompaniment.
Why You’ll Love Spatchcock Chicken
The beauty of spatchcock chicken lies in how it transforms an ordinary roast chicken into something extraordinary. By flattening the bird, you achieve perfectly even cooking, with tender, juicy meat and crispy skin on every single bite. The method also drastically reduces cooking time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions when you need a showstopping main dish in a shorter amount of time.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a group of friends, this technique is a game-changer. It’s simple, fast, and delivers impressive results every time.
So grab a whole chicken, grab your kitchen shears, and get ready to enjoy a delicious spatchcock chicken that’s tender on the inside, crispy on the outside, and totally unforgettable!
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