chicken under a brick recipe

The Best chicken under a brick recipe

I’ve been making chicken under a brick for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. This classic Italian recipe is simple to prepare, yet it’s packed with flavor and texture.

The dish originated in Italy, where it was cooked in a wood-fired oven. The technique of cooking the chicken under a brick is what sets this recipe apart from other chicken dishes.

By placing the chicken on top of a brick or heavy object, you’re able to cook it evenly and prevent it from drying out. I love this recipe because it’s easy to make and feeds a large group of people.

My family and I always enjoy the crispy skin and juicy meat that this recipe produces. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or just a weeknight dinner.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly healthy, with no added oils or preservatives needed. The only ingredients you need are some boneless chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.

I like to serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Chicken Under a Brick

4.8 from 823 votes

This technique uses a heavy weight to press the chicken flat against the pan, ensuring crispy skin and juicy meat. The weight helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly, resulting in a beautifully browned exterior.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1 whole chicken, about 3 1/2 to 4 pounds, backbone removed and flattened
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
4 cloves garlic, smashed
4 sprigs fresh rosemary
1 lemon, thinly sliced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
2Rub the olive oil all over the chicken, then season generously with salt and pepper, ensuring the underside is also seasoned.
3Place the chicken skin-side down in a cold heavy skillet.
4Arrange the smashed garlic, rosemary sprigs, and lemon slices under and around the chicken.
5Set the heavy weight directly on top of the chicken to press it flat.
6Place the skillet over medium-high heat.
7Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, until the skin is deep golden brown and crispy, adjusting the heat if it begins to smoke.
8Carefully remove the weight using tongs.
9Flip the chicken skin-side up using tongs and a spatula.
10Replace the weight on top of the chicken.
11Reduce the heat to medium and cook for another 12 to 15 minutes, until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F on an instant-read thermometer and the juices run clear.
12Remove the weight and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before carving.

🔧Equipment

Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
Heavy weight (brick wrapped in foil or another heavy pan)
Tongs
Instant-read thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 140mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 2 hours before cooking. If you do not have a brick, use a smaller heavy skillet or a foil-wrapped heavy can to press the chicken.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Under a Brick Works

To store leftover chicken, let it cool completely, then put it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, I like to put the pieces skin side up on a baking sheet in a 375 degree oven for about 10 minutes.

This keeps the skin crispy. You can also shred the cold chicken and use it in salads, sandwiches, or tacos.

For serving, I usually pair this chicken with simple sides like roasted potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh tomato salad. It also works great over pasta or rice with a little pan juice drizzled on top.

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion because it is easy, impressive, and works well for family gatherings. Everyone loves the crispy skin and juicy meat, and I never have leftovers for long.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Under a Brick

Q: What is the purpose of using a brick in cooking the chicken?

The brick serves as a weight to press down on the chicken, allowing for even cooking and preventing the meat from drying out.

Q: Can I substitute the brick with something else?

Yes, you can use any heavy object that will fit on top of your oven rack.

Q: How do I ensure that the chicken is cooked evenly?

Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe is not suitable for vegetarians as it contains chicken.

Q: Can I cook this dish in advance?

You can cook the chicken up to 24 hours in advance.

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