This succulent roasted spatchcock chicken recipe has tender, juicy meat, crispy skin, and a delicious blend of savory herbs and spices. This family-friendly dish is highly customizable to suit your family’s unique tastes. It’s the perfect family-friendly meal.
This roasted spatchcock chicken recipe is a family favorite for several reasons. First, it’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or even weekends. Second, the versatility of spatchcock chicken allows for endless variations, ensuring everyone’s preferences are catered to.
I buy a large 5-lb chicken so that my family always tends to have leftovers, which is perfect for some quick meal prep the following night. I can use the shredded chicken to prepare Chicken Pot Pie soup, Chicken Bog (Southern Chicken and Rice), Chicken Burrito Pasta Skillet, Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, or Million Dollar Chicken – just to name a few!
Whether served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to bring the family together around the dinner table.
Why Roast Spatchcock chicken?
There are several benefits to roasting the chicken in this fashion:
- Even cooking: Flattening the chicken ensures uniform cooking, with juicy meat and crispy skin.
- Faster cooking time: Reduced thickness speeds up cooking, perfect for busy schedules.
- Enhanced flavor absorption: Seasonings penetrate deeper, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
- Easy carving: The flattened shape makes it easier to carve and serve.
- Versatility: Can be roasted, grilled, or cooked in various recipes for diverse culinary options.
Ingredients for this Roasted Spatchcock Chicken Recipe
Create this flavorful Roasted Spatchcock chicken recipe with pantry staples like Adobo seasoning, paprika, dried parsley, herbs de Provence, ground black pepper, olive oil, and a whole roaster chicken!
- Whole roaster chicken: The star of the dish, provides juicy, tender meat with crispy skin when properly cooked.
- Adobo seasoning: Is a seasoning salt blend made of salt, turmeric, and garlic powder. You may substitute this with your favorite seasoning blend.
- Paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness and enhances the color of the chicken. For smoky flavor try smoked paprika.
- Dried parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and complements the overall herbaceous flavor.
- Herbs de Provence: Infuses the chicken with a fragrant mix of dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and lavender.
- Ground black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and balances the other flavors.
- Olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist while roasting and enhances its richness.
How to Make Spatchcock Chicken
Follow these simple steps to make a perfectly roasted spatchcock chicken recipe. Your family will enjoy juicy, flavorful results every time!
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place chicken breast-side down on a cutting board [paid link]. Use kitchen shears to cut along both sides of the backbone and remove it.
- With a sharp knife, run it between the breasts to break the breastbone apart.
- Flip the chicken over and press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten.
- Rub olive oil and seasoning blend all over both sides of the chicken.
- Place the chicken on a roasting sheet, breast-side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Why this Recipe Works
This roasted spatchcock chicken recipe suits busy families for its simplicity and efficiency. Quick to prepare, it offers a wholesome meal without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. Its versatility allows for easy customization, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences. Plus, with minimal cleanup required, it’s a stress-free option for hectic schedules, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious homemade meal together.
Recipe Tips and Kitchen Tricks
- Use kitchen shears for easier spatchcocking.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for juicier meat.
- Save the backbone for making homemade chicken broth.
- Customize seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Family-Friendly Side Dishes
- Roasted Potatoes: Simple, flavorful, and loved by all.
- Roasted Rainbow Carrots: Quick, nutritious, and customizable.
- Garlic Bread: A crowd-pleasing favorite that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- Stove Top Macaroni and Cheese: Comforting and kid-friendly.
- Rice Pilaf: Versatile and pairs well with a variety of flavors.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery, and classic comfort food.
Recipe Variations
- Citrus Herb: Replace lemon with orange and add fresh thyme for a bright twist.
- Spicy Cajun: Use Cajun seasoning instead of paprika for a flavorful kick.
- Mediterranean: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a taste of the Mediterranean.
- Asian-inspired: Marinate with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, then garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- BBQ Glazed: Brush with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a smoky, tangy flavor.
- Honey Mustard: Mix honey and Dijon mustard for a sweet and tangy glaze.
- Italian: Use Italian seasoning [paid link] blend and serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Garlic-Herb Butter: Rub chicken with garlic-herb butter for extra richness and flavor.
Storing, freezing, and reheating instructions
- Store: Refrigerate cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, covering to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different herbs and spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (75°C).
Can I spatchcock a turkey?
Yes, spatchcocking works for turkeys too, but cooking times will vary depending on size.
Can I use this recipe for grilling?
Yes, spatchcocked chicken is excellent for grilling. Adjust cooking times and temperature accordingly.
Drink Pairings
Family-Friendly Drink Pairings for Roasted Spatchcock Chicken:
- Apple Cider: Sweet and refreshing, perfect for autumn meals.
- Lemonade: Classic and versatile, pairs well with any dish.
- Iced Tea: Light and refreshing, a great complement to savory flavors.
Wine Pairings:
- Chardonnay: Rich and buttery, pairs well with roasted chicken.
- Pinot Noir: Light-bodied with earthy notes, complements a variety of flavors.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Crisp and citrusy, enhance the herbs and spices in the chicken.
Cocktail Pairings:
- Moscow Mule: Refreshing and tangy, complements the savory flavors of spatchcock chicken.
- Margarita: Citrusy and bright, adds a zesty contrast to the dish.
- Old Fashioned: Complex and aromatic, pairs well with the richness of roasted chicken.
Beer Pairings:
- Pale Ale: Bitterness and citrusy hops cut through the richness of the chicken.
- Belgian Witbier: Light and slightly fruity, refreshes the palate between bites.
- Amber Ale: Malty sweetness balances the savory flavors of the dish.
Roasted Spatchcock Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 3-5 lb Whole roaster chicken
- 1 tbsp Adobo seasoning or your favorite spice blend
- 1/2 tsp Paprika sweet, smoked, or hot all work well with this recipe.
- 1/2 tsp Dried parsley optional
- 1/2 tsp Herbs de Provence or a blend of fresh or dried herbs from your pantry
- 1/4 tsp Ground black pepper more or less to taste
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place chicken breast-side down on a cutting board [paid link]. Use kitchen shears to cut along both sides of the backbone and remove it. Save this to make chicken stock. I throw mine in a bag in the freezer.
- With a sharp knife, run it between the breasts to break the breastbone apart. This makes the next step easier to manage.
- Flip the chicken over and press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten.
- Rub olive oil and seasoning blend all over both sides of the chicken.
- Place the chicken on a roasting sheet, breast-side up.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Notes
Storing, freezing, and reheating instructions
- Store: Refrigerate cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, covering to prevent drying out.