backed chicken

There’s something special about preparing a whole chicken for the family, but sometimes, the process can feel intimidating or time-consuming. Enter the cast iron spatchcock oven roasted chicken — a delicious, simple, and quick method that promises to become a staple in your dinner rotation.

This recipe cuts the cooking time in half while maximizing the crispy, flavorful goodness of a perfectly roasted chicken. And as a busy parent, saving time without compromising on flavor is essential. Let’s get into the details of this crowd-pleasing dish!

What is Spatchcock Chicken?

Spatchcocking, or butterflying, is the process of removing the backbone from a chicken and flattening it out. This method allows for even cooking, giving you that coveted crispy skin on every bite and juicy meat throughout. Not only does it reduce the cooking time, but it also creates a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress the family or any guests.

Why Cook a Spatchcock Oven Roasted Chicken in a Cast Iron Skillet?

Cast iron skillets are perfect for this recipe because of their ability to retain heat and create a perfectly seared and crisp crust. They also distribute heat evenly, ensuring that every part of the chicken cooks to perfection. Plus, the skillet transitions seamlessly from stovetop to oven, making it versatile and easy to use.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 whole chicken (3 1/2 – 4 pounds), thawed and innards discarded
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 teaspoons minced rosemary
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is warming up, you’ll begin prepping your chicken.

2. Prepare the Chicken
To spatchcock the chicken, place it breast-side down on a sturdy cutting board. Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut along both sides of the backbone and remove it. Once the backbone is removed, flip the chicken over and press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten the bird. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, which will help achieve that crispy skin.

3. Season the Chicken
Rub the chicken all over with the avocado oil, ensuring every part is covered. Season generously with salt and pepper, both on the skin and under it. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced rosemary, and garlic. Rub the herb butter mixture under the skin of the chicken, particularly over the breasts and thighs. This will infuse the meat with rich flavor as it roasts.

4. Sear in the Cast Iron Skillet
Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Once the skillet is hot, place the chicken breast-side down in the skillet. Sear for 3-4 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy.

5. Roast in the Oven
Flip the chicken so it’s breast-side up in the skillet, and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for about 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (75°C). The skin should be beautifully browned and crisp, and the meat juicy and tender.

6. Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is as moist as possible.

Serve with your family’s favorite sides for a complete meal—roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad all pair perfectly with this flavorful spatchcock chicken.

Tips for Success

• Pat the chicken dry: Removing excess moisture from the chicken skin before cooking helps it crisp up beautifully.
• Preheat the skillet: Don’t skip the searing step—this locks in flavor and enhances the final texture of the chicken.
• Use a meat thermometer: Ensuring the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature is key to a perfectly cooked bird.

Final Thoughts

The cast iron oven-roasted spatchcock chicken is not only a show-stopper at the dinner table, but it’s also a practical option for busy families. With minimal prep time and the incredible flavor, this recipe will become a go-to in your meal rotation. Plus, it’s an easy way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With the right technique and a few quality ingredients, you can create meals that everyone in your family will love. So next time you’re looking for a hearty, home-cooked meal, grab your cast iron skillet and spatchcock a chicken for a simple, yet sensational, dinner!