Chicken Under a Brick is a classic cooking method that guarantees the crispiest skin while keeping the meat incredibly juicy. This rustic yet elegant dish is made by weighing down a butterflied chicken with a brick or heavy pan, ensuring an even golden sear. The result? A beautifully crisp, herb-infused, and buttery chicken that’s packed with flavor in every bite. This one-pan meal is a game-changer for busy weeknights or special dinners. With just a few simple ingredients like fresh rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon, you can elevate your chicken to gourmet status. Whether served alongside roasted vegetables, a crisp salad, or buttery mashed potatoes, this dish is bound to impress.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), butterflied (spatchcocked)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 1 large brick wrapped in foil or a heavy cast iron skillet
Directions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, melted butter, rosemary, thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin.
- Heat the Skillet: Preheat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes.
- Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken skin-side down in the skillet. Place a sheet of parchment paper or foil on top, then press the wrapped brick or another heavy pan onto the chicken to weigh it down.
- Cook: Cook the chicken for about 12-15 minutes, pressing occasionally to ensure even browning. The skin should become deeply golden and crispy.
- Flip and Finish Cooking: Remove the weight, flip the chicken over, and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for another 10-12 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Chicken Under a Brick: A Crispy, Juicy, and Flavorful Delight
Chicken Under a Brick, also known as Pollo al Mattone in Italian cuisine, is a time-honored technique for preparing perfectly crispy and juicy chicken. This dish involves pressing a butterflied (spatchcocked) chicken under a weight, such as a brick wrapped in foil or a heavy cast iron skillet, to ensure maximum surface contact with the pan. The result? A golden-brown, ultra-crispy skin while keeping the inside incredibly tender and flavorful.
This simple yet elegant dish has its roots in Italian and Mediterranean cooking, where similar methods have been used for centuries to enhance texture and flavor. It is a one-pan, high-impact dish that is perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or impressing guests with restaurant-quality cooking at home.
The History Behind Chicken Under a Brick
The origins of Chicken Under a Brick can be traced back to Tuscany, Italy, where this technique was used to cook chicken evenly over an open flame. Italian chefs used hot stones or terracotta bricks to apply pressure, allowing the chicken to develop a crispy crust while remaining moist and juicy inside.
This cooking method was later adopted in various cuisines across the world, including French, Spanish, and American Southern cooking, each adding their unique twist. Today, it is a staple in modern kitchens because of its efficiency, simplicity, and unmatched flavor.
Why This Recipe is the Best
There are many reasons why Chicken Under a Brick stands out among other chicken recipes. Here’s why you should try it:
1. Ultimate Crispy Skin
By using a heavy weight, the chicken’s skin remains in full contact with the pan, allowing it to render fat efficiently and crisp up evenly. Unlike roasting or baking, this method eliminates soggy spots and ensures every bite has a satisfying crunch.
2. Juicy and Flavorful Meat
Cooking the chicken under a brick seals in the moisture, preventing it from drying out. The result is tender, succulent meat that absorbs the flavors of garlic, herbs, and butter beautifully.
3. Quick and Efficient Cooking
Unlike traditional roast chicken, which can take an hour or more, this method cuts down cooking time significantly. In just 35 minutes, you have a restaurant-quality meal on your table with minimal effort.
4. One-Pan Wonder (Less Cleanup!)
Chicken Under a Brick is a one-skillet meal, which means fewer dishes and less cleanup. This makes it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
5. Customizable Flavor Profile
This dish is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt the seasoning based on your taste preferences:
- Add smoked paprika and cayenne for a smoky, spicy kick.
- Use Italian seasoning with Parmesan for a rich, cheesy crust.
- Experiment with honey and mustard glaze for a sweet-savory twist.
6. Restaurant-Quality at Home
If you’ve ever wanted to achieve professional-level crispiness and juiciness in your home kitchen, this recipe delivers flawless results every time.
The Best Ingredients for Chicken Under a Brick
While this dish relies on simple, high-quality ingredients, using the right ones will take it to the next level.
1. Chicken
The best type of chicken for this dish is a free-range, organic whole chicken that has been spatchcocked (butterflied). This technique removes the backbone, allowing the chicken to lay flat for even cooking.
2. Olive Oil & Butter
Using a mix of olive oil and butter creates the best flavor and texture. Olive oil helps with high-heat searing, while butter adds richness and depth.
3. Fresh Herbs
A blend of rosemary, thyme, and garlic infuses the chicken with an irresistible aroma and flavor.
4. Lemon
Lemon zest and juice help brighten the dish with a touch of acidity, balancing the rich butteriness.
How to Achieve the Perfect Chicken Under a Brick
If you want to nail this dish every single time, follow these expert cooking tips:
1. Spatchcocking the Chicken
- Use sharp kitchen shears to remove the chicken’s backbone.
- Press down on the breastbone to flatten the chicken completely.
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels for maximum crispiness.
2. Preheating the Skillet
- Use a cast iron or heavy-duty pan for even heat distribution.
- Let the skillet heat for 3-5 minutes before adding the chicken.
3. Applying the Brick Correctly
- Wrap the brick tightly in foil to keep it clean.
- If you don’t have a brick, use a heavy cast iron skillet or a weighted saucepan.
- Make sure the weight is evenly distributed over the chicken.
4. Cooking Time & Temperature
- Medium-high heat is ideal for the first 12-15 minutes (skin side down).
- Once flipped, reduce to medium heat and cook for another 10-12 minutes.
- Use a thermometer to check for an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Under a Brick is incredibly versatile, pairing well with a variety of sides. Here are a few delicious ideas:
1. Roasted Vegetables
Serve with garlic-roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a wholesome, balanced meal.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
The buttery, crispy chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes and a drizzle of pan juices.
3. Light Salads
A fresh arugula or Caesar salad with a lemon vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory chicken.
4. Garlic Parmesan Rice
A simple, buttery rice dish with garlic and Parmesan is an easy yet flavorful side.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers, don’t let them go to waste! Here’s how to store and reheat:
Refrigeration:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
- Place chicken in a sealed freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Reheating for Best Texture:
- Avoid microwaving, as it will soften the crispy skin.
- Instead, reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
Fun Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Here are 3 unique variations of this classic dish:
1. Mediterranean Chicken Under a Brick
- Add oregano, feta cheese, and olives for a Greek-inspired version.
- Serve with hummus and warm pita bread.
2. Spicy Cajun Chicken
- Coat with Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Serve with cornbread and coleslaw.
3. Asian-Style Crispy Chicken
- Brush with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for an umami twist.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Conclusion
Chicken Under a Brick is a game-changing dish that delivers crispy skin, juicy meat, and bold flavors in just 35 minutes. With simple ingredients and an easy technique, you can achieve restaurant-level results at home. Whether you’re making this for a weeknight dinner, special gathering, or meal prep, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
