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Crispy Spatchcock Grilled Chicken Recipe with Easy Lemon Herb Butter

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A quick and easy grilled chicken recipe using the spatchcock method for crispy skin and juicy meat, finished with a bright lemon herb butter.

Ingredients

  • Whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs / 1.8-2.3 kg)
  • Olive oil (2 tbsp)
  • Salt (1 tbsp)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (1 tsp)
  • Lemon herb butter:
  • Unsalted butter (4 tbsp, softened)
  • Fresh lemon zest (1 tsp)
  • Fresh lemon juice (1 tbsp)
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped (2 tbsp)
  • Fresh thyme leaves (1 tsp)
  • Garlic, minced (2 cloves)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels. Using sharp kitchen shears, cut along each side of the backbone to remove it completely. Flip the bird over and press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten it.
  2. Rub olive oil all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides. Let it rest at room temperature while preparing the lemon herb butter.
  3. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and set aside.
  4. Preheat the grill to around 375°F (190°C). For charcoal, bank the coals to one side for indirect heat. For gas, turn one side to medium-high and leave the other off.
  5. Place the chicken skin-side up on the cooler side of the grill. Cover and cook for about 30 minutes.
  6. Flip the chicken skin-side down over the direct heat side for 5-8 minutes to crisp the skin, watching closely to avoid flare-ups.
  7. Check doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. While warm, brush the lemon herb butter generously all over the chicken.

Notes

If flare-ups occur while crisping the skin, move the chicken away and close the lid to reduce flames. Let the chicken rest for at least 5-10 minutes after grilling to keep it juicy. Use dried herbs at half the amount if fresh herbs are unavailable. Dairy-free butter or coconut oil can substitute for butter for a dairy-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: spatchcock chicken, grilled chicken, lemon herb butter, crispy chicken, backyard barbecue, easy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/crispy-spatchcock-grilled-chicken-recipe-with-easy-lemon-herb-butter/