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Flavor-Packed Lemon Garlic Spatchcock Chicken for Easy Weeknight Dinner
This flavorful spatchcock chicken is infused with lemon and garlic, making it a perfect choice for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Prep Time
15
minutes
mins
Cook Time
55
minutes
mins
Total Time
1
hour
hr
10
minutes
mins
Course:
Main
Cuisine:
American
Keyword:
Easy
Servings:
4
servings
Equipment
Oven
Cutting Board
Sharp Kitchen Shears
Roasting Pan
Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
1
whole
Whole Chicken (3-4 pounds)
Opt for fresh, free-range or organic for best flavor.
2
large
Fresh Lemons
Juice one and zest both; slices can be used inside the cavity.
6-8
cloves
Garlic, minced
Fresh garlic adds robust flavor.
1/4
cup
Olive Oil
Use high-quality extra virgin for best results.
1
tablespoon
Salt
Enhances natural flavors.
1
teaspoon
Pepper
Freshly ground for best flavor.
2
tablespoons
Fresh Herbs (rosemary or thyme)
Adds aromatic quality.
Optional Vegetables
2
cups
Root Vegetables (carrots, potatoes, onions)
Chop and season with marinade.
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Place the chicken breast-side down on a cutting board and cut along each side of the backbone to remove it.
Flip the chicken over and press down on the breastbone to flatten it.
In a bowl, mix minced garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and herbs to create the marinade.
Coat the chicken generously with the marinade, ensuring it gets under the skin.
If using vegetables, chop them and place in a roasting pan, season, and toss with olive oil.
Position the chicken on top of the vegetables in the roasting pan.
Roast in the oven for 45-55 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Serve hot with roasted vegetables.
Notes
For variations, consider adding olives, spices, or different citrus fruits to the marinade.