Skip to main content
Epicurious
Bon Appétit

Chicken Under a Brick

By Alison Roman

3.6

(9)

Image may contain Animal Bird Seafood Food Lobster and Sea Life
Chicken Under a BrickPeden + Munk

Remember: Spatchcock is not a dirty word. In fact, it's the speediest, easiest way to grill a whole bird. Also known as butterflying, the technique (see above) exposes lots of skin directly to the heat, guaranteeing thorough browning and crisping— coaxed further by pressing with bricks. Spatchcocked chicken, delicious on its own, is also great Garlicky Mayonnaise , Charred Tomatillo Salsa Verde , or Zingy Red Sauce .

How to Spatchcock:

Using kitchen shears, cut chicken along both sides of backbone to remove it. Flip chicken over. Press down on the breastbone until you hear it crack. Too chicken? Ask your butcher to do it for you.

See Related Recipes and Cooking Tips

Read More
Cod With Lemon Butter Sauce
A flurry of fresh tarragon makes this speedy weeknight dish of seared cod and luscious, sun-colored pan sauce feel restaurant worthy.
Caramelized Onion Pasta
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Hot Honey–Glazed Salmon
This broiled hot honey salmon recipe results in sweet, spicy, glossy fish coated in a homemade hot honey glaze for an easy weeknight dinner or make-ahead lunch.
Classic French Vinaigrette
Use this simple vinaigrette to dress a plate of greens, some steamed potatoes, or anything else that strikes your fancy.
Easy Banana Bread Recipe
Our go-to banana bread recipe is moist, nutty, and incredibly easy to make.
Super Seedy Power Cookies
As energizing as an energy bar, with a much simpler ingredient list.
Speedy Chicken Stroganoff
This easy, one-skillet chicken stroganoff features tender chicken breasts, savory mushrooms, and a creamy Dijon-crème fraîche sauce—perfect for weeknights.
Meatball Tagine
Warming harissa and cinnamon, briny olives, and sweet dried fruit make up the flavorful base for this weeknight-friendly take on tagine.