Spatchcock Chicken with Garlic-Herb Butter

Looking for the perfect roasted chicken recipe? This Spatchcock Chicken with Garlic-Herb Butter is a game-changer! By spatchcocking (butterflying) the chicken, you ensure even cooking, resulting in a perfectly crispy skin and juicy, tender meat. The garlic-herb butter mixture infuses the chicken with rich, savory flavors, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, a special celebration, or simply craving a mouthwatering meal, this easy spatchcock chicken recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients:

• 5-pound whole chicken
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs of your choice, chopped
• 1 ½ teaspoons garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons shallots, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place the chicken breast-side down on a cutting board. Using kitchen shears, carefully remove the backbone.
3. Flip the chicken over and press firmly on the breastbone to flatten the chicken until you hear a crack.
4. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, parsley, fresh herbs, minced garlic, shallots, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Tuck the chicken wings underneath and gently loosen the skin. Rub half of the garlic-herb butter mixture under the skin, then spread the remaining butter over the surface of the chicken.
6. Place the chicken on a baking sheet, skin-side up, and roast in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before carving and serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Spatchcocking the chicken ensures an even cook, resulting in crispy skin and juicy meat in less time compared to traditional roasting. The garlic-herb butter infuses the chicken with rich, aromatic flavors, creating a deliciously savory meal. This method is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, offering a show-stopping presentation without the complicated steps.

Tips

• Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is softened so it spreads easily under the skin.
• Resting Time: Let the chicken rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to match your taste preferences.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different Herbs: Use herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest for an extra citrusy punch.
• Dairy-Free Option: Swap out the butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter if you prefer a dairy-free version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for some heat.

FAQs

Can I use a smaller or larger chicken?
Yes, you can adjust the cooking time depending on the size of the chicken. A smaller chicken may cook in about 35-40 minutes, while a larger one may need more time.

What if I don’t have kitchen shears?
If you don’t have kitchen shears, you can use a sharp knife to carefully remove the backbone. It might be a little trickier, but it can be done.

Can I cook this chicken on the grill instead?
Absolutely! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and cook the chicken with the skin-side up, using indirect heat for 40-45 minutes until it reaches 165°F internally.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve the spatchcock chicken with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
• Pair it with a simple garlic bread or crusty baguette to soak up the delicious juices.
• For a lighter option, serve with steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans for a balanced meal.