How to Spatchcock a Chicken

Spatchcocking a chicken is so easy. I thought it was going to be really difficult and questioned if it was really worth the amount of time it would take to spatchcock a chicken. Let me tell you, this is so simple and it does save cooking time. Plus the Chicken looks kind of cool.

Why Spatchcock a chicken?

I'm sure, if you're like me, you're wondering if it is worth it to spatchcock a chicken. Here are a few reasons why it's worth the effort.

• Roasting or Grilling time - By cooking the chicken flat it speeds up the time it takes to cook the chicken. In fact, it takes about 30% to 50% less time to cook. Of course, the total time to cook also depends on the size of the chicken or Turkey.
• Evenly cooked - When cooking a spatchcocked chicken the chicken is cooked facing upwards. So the chicken browns evenly and all the skin is crispy. Who doesn't love crispy skin? So by Spatchcocking a chicken, you stop fights in the house over the crispy pieces!😀
• Special - This chicken looks a little better than a regular chicken. So basically, you're taking the simple method of roasting a chicken and making it look super fancy.

Really, it only takes a couple of minutes to spatchcock a chicken. Once it is started it goes fast. Just make sure to have a good pair of kitchen scissors or a boning knife.

What is this technique?

It's a technique by which the backbone of a whole chicken or turkey is removed. By doing this the chicken or turkey is flattened and roasted in the oven or grilled Spatchcocking a chicken is the same as butterflying a chicken. It's just more fun to say!!!

According to Wikipedia, the term actually comes from Ireland in the 18th century. Now it's a very popular way to grill or roast a whole chicken. I think it's so popular now because of how busy we all are and this technique saves a lot of cooking time..... and don't forget that crispy skin!!!

What is needed?

• Kitchen Shears or boning knife
• Meat Thermometer
• Oh, and a Chicken!!!

How to Spatchcock a Chicken

Remove the neck and parts from the chicken

Place the chicken breast side down, on the cutting board

Using kitchen shears or a knife, cut along the backbone, from the bottom of the bird to the top.

Cut along the other side to remove the backbone. Save the backbone for stock.

Open the cavity of the chicken

Flip the chicken over and open it like a book. Press firmly on the breastbone to flatten.

How Long To Roast or Grill A Spatchcock Chicken 

A Spatchcock Chicken will cook completely in 30% - 50% less time than a whole chicken. Always use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken is completely done.

Keep in mind, the total time to cook depends on the size of the chicken. For example, a 3-pound whole chicken can take 1 ½ to 2 hours to cook completely. Whereas a spatchcock chicken will take about 45 minutes to one hour.

Don't forget the crispy skin!!!

After you have spatchcocked the chicken it can be seasoned with any of your favorite seasoning.

Our favorite recipe is Peri Peri Chicken. The Peri Peri Sauce is easy to make and it goes great with chicken