Crispy Chicken Under a Brick

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Crispy Chicken Under a Brick.

1. Step 1

   Begin by preheating your oven to a sizzling 425°F (220°C).

2. Step 2

   Grab your kitchen shears and carefully cut along both sides of the chicken's backbone to remove it, discarding the backbone afterward.

3. Step 3

   Next, slice through the breastbone from the inside, allowing the chicken to open up like a book.

4. Step 4

   Generously season the chicken with salt and black pepper, then sprinkle herbes de Provence inside.

5. Step 5

   Let it rest at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes, then pat it dry with paper towels for that perfect crisp.

6. Step 6

   Brush the skin side with vegetable oil and season again with salt and black pepper for extra flavor.

7. Step 7

   Heat an ovenproof cast iron skillet over high heat for about 5 minutes until it’s blazing hot.

8. Step 8

   Place the chicken skin-side down in the skillet and weigh it down with wrapped bricks for even cooking.

9. Step 9

   Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.

10. Step 10

    After this, carefully remove the bricks, flip the chicken over, and continue roasting until the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink at the bone, which should take an additional 5 to 15 minutes.

11. Step 11

    An instant-read thermometer should read 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.

12. Step 12

    For the grand finale, preheat your oven's broiler and broil the chicken for 1 to 3 minutes until the skin turns crispy and golden, creating a mouthwatering finish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

13. Step 13

    Enjoy your perfectly roasted chicken!.