How to Spatchcock a Chicken
Learn how to spatchcock a chicken with this simple and time-saving technique that guarantees even cooking and perfectly crispy skin every time. This recipe walks you through the process of removing the backbone and flattening the bird, making it ideal for roasting, grilling, or pan-searing. With just a few basic ingredients—like salt, pepper, olive oil, and optional seasonings like garlic powder and paprika—you’ll transform an ordinary whole chicken into a show-stopping centerpiece. Perfect for meal prep or impressing guests, spatchcocking reduces cooking time and ensures maximum flavor in every bite. Follow these easy steps to elevate your chicken game and enjoy perfectly cooked poultry with minimal effort!
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Ingredients
- 1 piece Whole chicken
- 1 tablespoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Paprika (optional)
Directions
Step 1
Place the whole chicken on a large cutting board, breast side down, with the backbone facing up.
Step 2
Using sharp kitchen shears, cut along one side of the backbone from the tail to the neck. Repeat this step on the other side of the backbone to fully remove it. Set the backbone aside for making stock, if desired.
Step 3
Flip the chicken over so that the breast side is facing up. Place your hands firmly on the center of the chicken's breastbone and press down to flatten it. You should hear a slight crack as the breastbone breaks.
Step 4
Trim any excess fat or loose skin from the chicken to make it neat and even.
Step 5
Season the chicken all over with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and any additional seasonings like garlic powder or paprika, if desired. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub it in to coat evenly.
Step 6
Your spatchcocked chicken is now ready to be cooked! It can be roasted, grilled, or pan-seared for even and delicious results.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 1452.9 grams (1452.9g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 473 |
| Total Fat 39.90g | 51% |
| Saturated Fat 7.60g | 38% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g | |
| Cholesterol 105mg | 35% |
| Sodium 7198mg | 313% |
| Total Carbohydrate 4.60g | 2% |
| Dietary Fiber 3.00g | 11% |
| Total Sugars 0.30g | |
| Protein 27.70g | 55% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 44mg | 3% |
| Iron 3mg | 16% |
| Potassium 420mg | 9% |
Source of Calories