Butterflied Chicken Recipe

Butterflied chicken is a delicious and versatile dish that makes for an impressive meal, perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. The technique of butterflying the chicken allows for even cooking and enhanced flavor absorption, ensuring that every bite is juicy and packed with taste. This recipe combines a simple marinade with fresh herbs and spices to elevate the flavor of the chicken, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful butterflied chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, butterflied: Butterflying the chicken involves removing the backbone so that it can lay flat. This method not only allows for quicker cooking but also helps to keep the meat tender and juicy.
• Salt and pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the chicken’s natural flavors.
• ½ cup mayonnaise: This ingredient acts as a fantastic marinade base, helping to keep the chicken moist while also adding creaminess and flavor.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Adds richness and helps with browning during cooking.
• 60 ml lemon juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides acidity, which brightens the dish and tenderizes the meat.
• 1 tablespoon chicken spice: You can use your favorite blend, or create your own mix of herbs and spices to suit your taste.
• A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped: Fresh herbs add brightness and a burst of flavor to the marinade.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic infuses the chicken with a robust flavor, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Butterfly the Chicken: Start by placing the chicken breast-side down on a cutting board. Using sharp kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut along both sides of the backbone to remove it. Open the chicken like a book and press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten it. This step allows for even cooking and helps the chicken absorb more flavor.
2. Season the Chicken: Generously sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken, both on the skin and underneath. This basic seasoning is crucial for enhancing the natural flavor of the chicken.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

3. Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, melted butter, lemon juice, chicken spice, chopped parsley, and minced garlic. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended. The mayonnaise serves as a great base, adding moisture and flavor.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

4. Marinate the Chicken: Place the butterflied chicken in a large dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that it is evenly coated. If using a dish, cover it with plastic wrap. If using a bag, seal it tightly, pressing out as much air as possible. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have the time. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

5. Preheat Oven: While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). This temperature is perfect for roasting the chicken, allowing it to cook through without drying out.

Step 5: Prepare for Cooking

6. Prepare the Baking Tray: Line a baking tray with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top of the baking tray if you have one; this allows air to circulate around the chicken, promoting even cooking and crisping the skin.

Step 6: Cook the Chicken

7. Place the Chicken in the Oven: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken skin-side up on the wire rack (or directly on the foil-lined tray if you don’t have a rack). Cover the chicken loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from browning too quickly.
8. Roast the Chicken: Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes. The foil will help keep the chicken moist during the initial cooking phase.
9. Remove the Foil: After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. This allows the skin to crisp up beautifully. Continue to roast the chicken for an additional 10 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 75 degrees Celsius (165 degrees Fahrenheit) when measured at the thickest part of the chicken.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

10. Let it Rest: Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period is essential as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each bite is tender and juicy.
11. Serve: Carve the chicken into portions and serve it warm. You can garnish with extra chopped parsley for added freshness and color. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

• Variations: Feel free to customize the marinade by adding different herbs and spices. For instance, you can include smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Side Dishes: Consider serving the butterflied chicken with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or a light quinoa salad. These will complement the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain moisture.
• Grilling Option: If you prefer, you can grill the butterflied chicken instead of roasting it in the oven. Preheat the grill to medium heat, cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Conclusion

Butterflied chicken is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends. This recipe, with its creamy, garlicky marinade and perfectly roasted skin, guarantees a succulent chicken that can stand as the star of your dinner table. Enjoy this delicious meal, knowing that it’s not only satisfying but also a great way to showcase your culinary skills!