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How to Make Butterfly Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Place the whole chicken on a large cutting board, breast-side down.
- Using sharp kitchen shears or a knife, cut along both sides of the backbone to remove it. Discard the backbone or save it for homemade stock.
- Once the backbone is removed, flip the chicken over so the breast is facing up.
- Press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten the chicken. You should hear a slight crack, and the chicken should lay flat. This step is what makes it “butterflied.”
2. Season the Chicken
- Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Rub the chicken all over with the minced garlic, paprika, and rosemary.
- Season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add any other herbs or spices that you enjoy, such as thyme, oregano, or cumin.
- Let the chicken rest for 15-20 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.
3. Cook the Chicken
Option 1: Roast in the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the chicken on a baking sheet, skin-side up, and roast for about 40-45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The skin should be golden and crispy.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before carving.
Option 2: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill, and cook for about 10-12 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.
- You can also use indirect heat to cook the chicken if the skin is getting too dark. Cover the grill and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Option 3: Pan-Seared Butterfly Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil.
- Place the chicken, skin-side down, in the skillet and cook for about 8-10 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
- Flip the chicken over and cover the skillet. Cook for another 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the butterfly chicken with your favorite side dishes, like roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Tips for Perfect Butterfly Chicken
✅ Use a Sharp Knife or Shears – A sharp tool will make it easier to remove the backbone without damaging the chicken.
✅ Brine the Chicken – For even juicier meat, brine the chicken in a saltwater solution for a few hours before cooking.
✅ Add Flavor Under the Skin – For an extra punch of flavor, loosen the skin of the chicken and rub some seasoning directly under it.
✅ Use a Meat Thermometer – Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked without drying out. The safe internal temperature for poultry is 165°F (74°C).
✅ Rest Before Serving – Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to redistribute the juices.
Why You Should Try Butterfly Chicken
Butterfly Chicken is an incredibly versatile and delicious cooking method that results in a perfectly cooked bird with crispy skin and juicy meat. Whether you’re roasting it in the oven, grilling it on the barbecue, or pan-searing it on the stovetop, this method ensures the chicken cooks evenly and quickly.
The flavors and texture of butterfly chicken are guaranteed to impress your family and guests. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of prep work, you can create a show-stopping dish that’s both easy and delicious.
Try it today and take your chicken game to the next level! 🍗🌿
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