Spatchcock Chicken: The Ultimate Grilling Guide
How Long to Cook Spatchcock Chicken on the Grill
Spatchcock chicken is a popular grilling technique that results in a juicy, flavorful bird that cooks evenly. The word “spatchcock” comes from the Middle English word “spatchen,” which means to split. When you spatchcock a chicken, you cut it down the backbone and spread it open, which allows it to cook faster and more evenly.
If you’re new to grilling spatchcock chicken, you may be wondering how long to cook it. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the chicken, but a good rule of thumb is to cook it for 10 minutes per pound at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of spatchcocking chicken, including how to prepare the bird, how to grill it, and how to know when it’s done. We’ll also provide some tips for making the best spatchcock chicken on the grill.
So if you’re ready to learn how to cook spatchcock chicken on the grill, read on!
| Time | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 225 degrees F | Preheat grill to indirect heat. |
| 1 hour | 375 degrees F | Flip chicken and cook until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. |
| 10 minutes | 400 degrees F | Brush chicken with barbecue sauce and cook until sauce is caramelized. |
Spatchcock chicken is a popular grilling technique that involves butterflying a whole chicken and grilling it flat. This method of cooking results in a chicken that is evenly cooked and juicy, with a crispy skin.
Spatchcock chicken is relatively easy to cook, and it can be grilled in a matter of minutes. However, there are a few things you need to know in order to get the best results.
In this article, we will discuss how to prepare and cook spatchcock chicken on the grill. We will also provide tips for making the most of this delicious dish.
Preparing the Spatchcock Chicken
The first step in preparing spatchcock chicken is to cut out the backbone. This can be done with a sharp knife or poultry shears.
Once the backbone is removed, you will need to season the chicken with salt and pepper. You can also add any other seasonings that you like, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
Finally, you will need to brush the chicken with oil. This will help to create a crispy skin.
Grilling the Spatchcock Chicken
The next step is to grill the chicken. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
Place the chicken on the grill, skin side up. Grill the chicken for 15 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the chicken is cooked, you can remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Grilling Spatchcock Chicken
Here are a few tips for grilling spatchcock chicken:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken is done cooking when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Grill the chicken over indirect heat. This will help to prevent the chicken from burning.
- Baste the chicken with butter or olive oil while it is grilling. This will help to keep the chicken moist.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken.
Spatchcock chicken is a delicious and easy-to-grill dish. By following these tips, you can cook spatchcock chicken that is perfectly cooked and juicy.
Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful:
- [How to Spatchcock a Chicken](https://www.thespruceeats.com/how-to-spatchcock-a-chicken-591566)
- [Grilled Spatchcock Chicken](https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/grilled-spatchcock-chicken-3653511)
- [Spatchcock Chicken on the Traeger](https://www.traegergrills.com/recipes/spatchcock-chicken)
How Long To Cook Spatchcock Chicken On Grill?
Spatchcocking is a cooking method that involves removing the backbone of a chicken and flattening it out. This allows the chicken to cook more evenly and quickly, making it a great option for grilling.
To spatchcock a chicken, you will need:
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A pair of kitchen shears
1. Place the chicken breast-side up on a cutting board.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut along each side of the backbone, starting at the neck and working your way down to the tail.
3. Remove the backbone and discard.
4. Flip the chicken over so that the breast is facing down.
5. Using kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the rib cage, starting at the neck and working your way down to the tail.
6. Open the chicken up like a book.
The chicken is now spatchcocked and ready to cook.
How Long to Cook Spatchcock Chicken on the Grill
The cooking time for spatchcock chicken will vary depending on the size of the chicken and the temperature of your grill.
For a 4-pound chicken, cook it for 30-35 minutes per pound at a temperature of 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
For a 5-pound chicken, cook it for 35-40 minutes per pound at a temperature of 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
For a 6-pound chicken, cook it for 40-45 minutes per pound at a temperature of 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
How to Tell When Spatchcock Chicken is Done
The best way to tell when spatchcock chicken is done is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
You can also check to see if the chicken is done by inserting a fork into the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear when the chicken is done.
Resting the Spatchcock Chicken
Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it more flavorful and juicy.
Serving the Spatchcock Chicken
Carve the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides. Some popular sides for spatchcock chicken include:
- Grilled vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice
- Salad
Spatchcock chicken is a delicious and easy way to cook chicken on the grill. It is a great option for a quick and easy weeknight meal or for a special occasion.
How long does it take to cook a spatchcock chicken on the grill?
A spatchcock chicken will take about 30-40 minutes to cook on the grill, depending on the size of the chicken and the temperature of the grill.
What temperature should I grill the chicken at?
The ideal temperature for grilling a spatchcock chicken is between 350F and 400F.
What should I do if the chicken is not cooked through?
If the chicken is not cooked through, return it to the grill and cook it for a few more minutes. Be sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches 165F.
What can I do to prevent the chicken from drying out?
To prevent the chicken from drying out, baste it with olive oil or butter every few minutes while it is grilling. You can also wrap the chicken in aluminum foil after it has been grilled for about half of the cooking time.
What are some tips for grilling a spatchcock chicken?
Here are a few tips for grilling a spatchcock chicken:
- Marinate the chicken in a flavorful marinade for several hours or overnight before grilling.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat before adding the chicken.
- Cook the chicken for 30-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F.
- Baste the chicken with olive oil or butter every few minutes while it is grilling.
- Wrap the chicken in aluminum foil after it has been grilled for about half of the cooking time.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
spatchcock chicken is a delicious and easy way to cook chicken on the grill. By removing the backbone, you can shorten the cooking time and ensure that the chicken is cooked evenly. The key to spatchcocking chicken is to make sure that the chicken is evenly seasoned and that the grill is hot enough. With a little practice, you’ll be able to cook spatchcock chicken like a pro!
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