Chicken al Mattone

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Have you ever tried cooking chicken under a brick? It may sound odd, but this traditional Italian cooking method produces incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken.

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Chicken al Mattone
Servings
4

Method

  1. Flatten the chicken by opening it like a book and place it, skin side down, on a baking sheet with rims.

  2. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of oil, 1 tablespoon of chopped rosemary, and garlic.

  3. Rub the mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken.

  4. Cover the chicken and refrigerate it overnight.

  5. Preheat the oven to 400°F.

  6. Sprinkle the chicken with coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper.

  7. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat.

  8. Add the chicken to the skillet, skin side down, and cook until it turns golden brown, approximately 7 minutes (do not flip the chicken over).

  9. Place a foil-wrapped brick or a cast-iron skillet on top of the chicken and roast it in the oven for 30 minutes.

  10. Remove the brick and flip the chicken over; then, place the brick back on top of the chicken.

  11. Continue roasting until the juices run clear when the thickest part of the thigh is pierced, approximately 15 minutes longer.

  12. Remove the brick and transfer the chicken to a platter.

  13. Drizzle the chicken with the remaining 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and sprinkle it with crushed red pepper and parsley.

  14. Garnish the chicken with rosemary sprigs.

About this recipe

Have you ever tried cooking chicken under a brick? It may sound odd, but this traditional Italian cooking method produces incredibly juicy and flavorful chicken. In this article, we will explore the technique of cooking Chicken al Mattone and how you can achieve the best results in your own kitchen.

What is Chicken al Mattone?

Chicken al Mattone, which translates to "chicken under a brick," is a cooking method that involves placing a weight (such as a brick or heavy skillet) on top of a butterflied chicken while it cooks. This technique allows for even heat distribution and results in a crispy skin, while keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Why cook Chicken al Mattone?

There are several reasons why cooking Chicken al Mattone is worth a try. Firstly, the weight applied during cooking helps to flatten the chicken, which allows for more even cooking and quicker cooking times. Secondly, the weight compresses the chicken, resulting in a crispy skin and succulent meat. Lastly, the technique creates a beautiful presentation, making it a perfect dish for special occasions or dinner parties.

How to Cook Chicken al Mattone

Before you begin, make sure you have a whole chicken that has been butterflied (spatchcocked). This involves removing the backbone and flattening the chicken. Season the chicken with your preferred herbs, spices, and marinade. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.

Place the chicken, skin side down, on the grill or in a preheated skillet. Place a weight on top of the chicken, such as a brick wrapped in foil or a cast-iron skillet. Cook the chicken for about 20 minutes, then carefully flip it over and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165째F (74째C).

Once cooked, remove the weight and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. The result will be a beautifully crispy and succulent chicken that is sure to impress your guests.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results when cooking Chicken al Mattone, here are a few tips:

  1. Ensure the chicken is thoroughly butterflied, with the backbone removed, to allow for even cooking.
  2. Season the chicken well with your preferred herbs, spices, and marinade to enhance the flavor.
  3. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat before cooking the chicken.
  4. Use a weight that is heavy enough to press down on the chicken but not too heavy to damage it.
  5. Monitor the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165째F (74째C) for food safety.

Conclusion

Cooking Chicken al Mattone is a unique and delicious way to prepare chicken. The technique of cooking the chicken under a brick results in a crispy skin, juicy meat, and a memorable dining experience. So, why not give it a try and impress your family and friends with this flavorful Italian dish?

Frequently asked questions

Can I use any type of chicken for Chicken al Mattone?

Yes, you can use any whole chicken that has been butterflied (spatchcocked) for this cooking method.

What are some recommended herbs and spices for seasoning the chicken?

Popular herbs and spices for Chicken al Mattone include rosemary, thyme, garlic, paprika, and lemon zest.

Can I cook Chicken al Mattone in the oven?

Absolutely! Simply preheat your oven to the recommended temperature and follow the same cooking instructions.

How long should I let the chicken rest before serving?

It's best to let the chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Can I use a different weight instead of a brick?

Yes, you can use a heavy skillet, a cast-iron pan, or even a large can of tomatoes as a weight.

Can I marinate the chicken before cooking?

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken will enhance the flavor and moisture of the meat.

Can I cook Chicken al Mattone on a gas grill?

Yes, you can cook Chicken al Mattone on a gas grill. Just make sure to preheat the grill and follow the cooking instructions.

Is Chicken al Mattone a traditional Italian dish?

Yes, Chicken al Mattone is a traditional Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations.

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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