Grilled Chicken Under a Brick
Grilled chicken under a brick is a classic Italian cooking method that results in tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken. This technique involves pressing a whole chicken flat on the grill with a heavy weight, such as a brick or a cast iron skillet, to ensure even cooking and to achieve a crispy skin. The weight helps to evenly distribute heat and encourages the chicken to cook quickly and evenly, while also creating a delicious golden-brown crust.
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
45 mins
Additional Time:
10 mins
Total Time:
1 hr 5 mins
Servings:
6
Yield:
6 servings
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Place the chicken, breast side down, on a cutting board. Remove the backbone and 1 inch of the breast bone with kitchen shears. Remove the wing tips and any large pockets of fat near the tail. Flip the bird over and use the heal of your hand to flatten the chicken. Rub the skin with oil and lightly season with salt and pepper.
Step 2
Cut 2 pieces of heavy duty aluminum to roughly 20 inches long each. Wrap each brick with foil, shiny-side out. Lightly oil the grill and add the bricks.
Step 3
Lightly oil the grate of the grill and add the bricks. Preheat the grill to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and maintain the temperature until bricks are hot.
Step 4
Turn off the middle burner and place the chicken over that area, flesh side down, on indirect heat. Place the bricks on the chicken and close the lid of the grill.
Step 5
Grill for 40 minutes. Remove the bricks, turn the chicken, and continue grilling until the skin is crispy, 5 to 10 minutes more. An instant-read thermometer inserted near the bone should read 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Remove and let rest for 10 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
229
Calories
16g
Fat
21g
Protein
Complement
The process of grilling chicken under a brick not only results in a beautifully cooked bird, but also infuses the meat with a smoky, charred flavor that is irresistible. The weight of the brick also helps to compress the chicken, ensuring that the skin is in direct contact with the grill, resulting in a perfectly crispy exterior. This method is perfect for achieving restaurant-quality grilled chicken at home, and the versatility of the dish makes it a favorite for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.
