why make this recipe

Spatchcock chicken is a simple way to cook a whole chicken that makes it tender and juicy. By removing the backbone and flattening the chicken, it cooks faster and more evenly. This method allows for crispy skin and flavorful meat, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, it’s a fun cooking technique to try!

how to make Spatchcock Chicken

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 lemon, sliced
Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary), optional

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
Place the chicken breast-side down on a cutting board. Use kitchen shears to cut along both sides of the backbone and remove it. Open the chicken and flatten it by pressing down on the breastbone.
Flip the chicken over and rub it with olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Place the lemon slices and fresh herbs on top of the chicken.
Cook in the preheated oven on a baking sheet for about 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

how to serve Spatchcock Chicken

Serve spatchcock chicken with your favorite sides. It goes well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. You can cut the chicken into pieces at the table for a family-style meal, making it easy for everyone to enjoy.

how to store Spatchcock Chicken

To store leftover spatchcock chicken, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Spatchcock Chicken

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the olive oil and spices for a few hours before cooking.
Ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing the chicken inside for the best results.
Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

variation

You can change the spices based on your taste! Try using different herbs or spices like cumin or Italian seasoning. You can also add other veggies like carrots or potatoes to the baking sheet for a full meal.

FAQs

Q: Can I spatchcock a frozen chicken?
A: It’s best to thaw the chicken completely before spatchcocking. A frozen chicken is hard to cut and may not cook evenly.

Q: What is the best method to cut the backbone?
A: Using kitchen shears is the easiest way to cut the backbone. Make sure to apply enough pressure and cut through the ribs.

Q: Is spatchcock chicken healthier than traditional roasted chicken?
A: Spatchcock chicken is cooked faster and may require less oil, making it a healthier option and still keeping the meat juicy.

Spatchcock Chicken

Print Recipe

A simple and delicious method for cooking a whole chicken that results in tender, juicy meat with crispy skin.

Author: kaoucheegmail-com
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Paleo

Ingredients

Scale

1 whole chicken
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 lemon, sliced
Fresh herbs (thyme or rosemary), optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
Place the chicken breast-side down on a cutting board. Use kitchen shears to cut along both sides of the backbone and remove it. Open the chicken and flatten it by pressing down on the breastbone.
Flip the chicken over and rub it with olive oil, salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Place the lemon slices and fresh herbs on top of the chicken.
Cook in the preheated oven on a baking sheet for about 45-55 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the olive oil and spices for a few hours before cooking. Ensure your oven is fully preheated for the best results.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: spatchcock chicken, roasted chicken, easy chicken recipe, family dinner