Butterfly Roasted Chicken

Butterfly Roasted Chicken - A Delicious Recipe for Perfect Picnics

Butterfly roasted chicken is more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition full of flavors that will bring a smile to your face and transport you to a green meadow, even in your own kitchen. The term "butterfly" comes from the cutting technique that transforms the chicken into a shape reminiscent of butterfly wings, allowing for even and quick cooking. This dish is easy to make, healthy, and extremely tasty, perfect for an outdoor meal or a family dinner.

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Marinating time: 1 hour (or overnight for a more intense flavor)
- Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes (or more if marinating overnight)
- Servings: 2

Ingredients
- 1 small chicken (400-500 grams)
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon of ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon of sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon of turmeric
- 3-4 garlic cloves
- 100 ml extra virgin olive oil
- Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

A Bit of History
The butterfly roasted chicken recipe has deep roots in grilling culture, being appreciated in various corners of the world. This preparation method not only brings fantastic flavor but also an attractive presentation, perfect for impressing guests. The technique of cutting the chicken this way allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, providing an unforgettable culinary experience.

Step by Step for Butterfly Roasted Chicken

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by cleaning and washing the chicken well, then pat it dry with a paper towel. It is important for the chicken to be dry to achieve crispy skin when cooked.

Step 2: Creating the Flavorful Marinade
In a mortar, crush the garlic until it becomes a paste. Add thyme, coriander, sweet paprika, and turmeric. Mix well with the olive oil until you obtain a smooth paste. This mixture will not only add flavor but will also help tenderize the meat.

Step 3: Cutting the Chicken
Using kitchen shears, cut along the back of the chicken from one end to the other. Then, twist the thighs and gently press down with the palm of your hand to flatten it. This technique will help it cook evenly.

Step 4: Marinating
Place the chicken in a large bowl or dish and cover it with the spice paste. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least one hour; ideally, leave it overnight. The longer it marinates, the more intense the flavors will be.

Step 5: Grilling
Preheat the grill. If using a double grill, sprinkle a little coarse salt on the surface and place the chicken, covering it with the other half of the grill. This process allows the chicken to cook from both sides without the need to flip it.

If you don’t have a double grill, you can improvise: cover the chicken with two layers of aluminum foil and place a hot cast-iron skillet on top. However, in this case, you will need to flip the chicken at least once.

Step 6: Cooking and Checking
The chicken will be ready in 20-25 minutes, but it’s good to check if it’s cooked through, especially if the chicken is larger than recommended. The skin should be crispy, and the meat tender. A useful trick is to collect the drippings and brush the chicken with them using a basting brush.

Step 7: Resting the Chicken
Once cooked, leave the chicken in a dish covered with plastic wrap. This step helps retain the juices in the meat, making it even tastier.

Serving and Delicious Combinations
Butterfly roasted chicken is delicious when served alongside an olive ciabatta or a crispy baguette, accompanied by some fresh salad leaves. Don’t hesitate to add a sweet and sour sauce, tzatziki, or aioli for an extra burst of flavor. These accompaniments will perfectly complement the chicken’s flavors.

Tips and Variations
- Tip: Use extra virgin olive oil for an intense and healthy flavor.
- Variation: You can add other spices, such as rosemary or oregano, to experiment with flavors.
- Storage: If you have leftover chicken, you can use it in delicious salads or sandwiches the next day.

Nutritional Benefits
This dish is an excellent source of protein, and the spices used not only add flavor but also have antioxidant properties. Extra virgin olive oil is rich in healthy fatty acids, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
It is recommended to use fresh chicken for the best results, but if you use frozen chicken, make sure it is completely thawed before starting preparation.

2. What side dishes pair well with this chicken?
A fresh green salad, grilled vegetables, or baked potatoes are excellent choices to complement the meal.

3. How can I make this chicken spicier?
Add a little ground chili pepper to the marinade or use hot sauces to intensify the flavors.

Now that you have all the information you need, all that’s left is to get cooking! Prepare this butterfly roasted chicken and enjoy a delicious dish that will impress everyone. Enjoy your meal!