Butterfly Chicken Recipe- French Special
Butterfly Chicken, or spatchcock chicken, is a preparation method where the backbone of the chicken is removed and the bird is flattened out. This technique ensures even cooking and crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy. Perfect for roasting, it’s a versatile dish that’s both quick to cook and delicious, ideal for a range of meals from casual dinners to festive gatherings.
- Prep Time15 min
- Cook Time1 hr
- Total Time1 hr 15 min
Butterfly Chicken Ingredients :
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), patted dry
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary (or thyme), chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
How to Make Butterfly Chicken :
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Chicken: Place the chicken breast-side down on a cutting board. Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut along both sides of the backbone and remove it, then turn the chicken breast-side up. Press down firmly on the breast to flatten the chicken (you may hear a crack).
Season Chicken: Rub the chicken all over with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, chopped rosemary, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken.
Roast Chicken: Place the chicken, skin-side up, on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh and the skin is crispy and golden.
Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. Serve with your favorite sides or a fresh salad.
Recipe Notes:
Butterfly Technique: Also known as spatchcocking, this technique helps the chicken cook more evenly and quickly. It also results in crispier skin.
Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your preference.
Cooking Time: Adjust the roasting time based on the size of the chicken. Smaller chickens may cook faster, so start checking the temperature early.
Serving Suggestions: Butterfly chicken pairs well with roasted vegetables, potatoes, or a simple green salad.
