Looking to savor the deliciousness of spatchcock chicken straight from your gas grill? Wondering how long it takes to achieve that perfect charred and juicy masterpiece? Well, you’re in the right place! Grilling spatchcock chicken on a gas grill is not only a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal, but it’s also quite simple. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process, including the ideal cooking time, to help you achieve chicken perfection. So, grab your tongs and let’s get grilling!
How Long to Grill Spatchcock Chicken on a Gas Grill
Grilling spatchcock chicken on a gas grill is a fantastic way to achieve tender and juicy meat with crispy skin. However, getting the cooking time just right can be a challenge. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the optimal cooking times and techniques to help you master the art of grilling spatchcock chicken on a gas grill.
What is Spatchcock Chicken?
Before we delve into the grilling process, let’s first understand what spatchcock chicken is. Spatchcocking is a cooking technique that involves removing the backbone of the chicken and flattening it out, allowing for more even cooking and faster cooking times. This method not only reduces cooking time but also ensures that both the white and dark meat are cooked to perfection.
Preparing the Spatchcock Chicken
Before firing up the gas grill, you’ll need to prepare the spatchcock chicken. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Place the whole chicken breast-side down on a clean cutting board.
- Using a sharp pair of kitchen shears or poultry shears, cut along both sides of the backbone, starting from the tail and working your way up to the neck.
- Remove the backbone and save it for making chicken stock or discard it.
- Place the chicken breast-side up and press down on the breastbone to flatten it out. You may hear a crack, which is normal.
- Tuck the wingtips behind the chicken’s back to prevent them from burning during grilling.
- Your spatchcock chicken is now ready for seasoning and grilling.
Seasoning the Spatchcock Chicken
To enhance the flavor of your spatchcock chicken, it’s important to season it properly. Here’s a simple seasoning recipe that works beautifully with grilled chicken:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl, then rub the mixture evenly all over the spatchcock chicken, ensuring every nook and cranny is covered. Let the chicken sit with the seasoning for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Preheating the Gas Grill
Before placing the chicken on the grill, it’s important to preheat it properly. Follow these steps to ensure your gas grill is at the right temperature:
- Open the lid of your gas grill and turn on all the burners to high heat.
- Close the lid and allow the grill to heat up for about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the grill has reached the desired temperature, adjust the burners to medium heat.
- Make sure to clean the grill grates thoroughly before placing the chicken on them.
Grilling the Spatchcock Chicken
Now that you have prepared the spatchcock chicken and preheated the gas grill, it’s time to start grilling. Follow these steps for perfect results:
- Place the seasoned spatchcock chicken skin-side down on the grill grates.
- Cover the grill and let the chicken cook for about 10-15 minutes.
- After the initial cooking time, flip the chicken over so that the skin side is facing up.
- Cover the grill and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes.
- Using an instant-read thermometer, check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken.
- The chicken is safe to consume when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- If the chicken has not reached the desired temperature, continue grilling and checking the temperature every few minutes.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Grilling Tips and Variations
To further enhance the flavor and texture of your grilled spatchcock chicken, here are some additional tips and variations to consider:
- For added smokiness, consider using wood chips or chunks to create a flavorful smoke on your gas grill.
- Experiment with different marinades or spice rubs to customize the flavor profile of your spatchcock chicken.
- If your gas grill has multiple burners, you can create different heat zones by leaving some burners on high and others on low. This allows you to adjust the cooking time for specific parts of the chicken.
- Consider basting the chicken with a glaze or sauce during the last few minutes of cooking to add a delicious caramelized finish.
- Remember to always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the proper internal temperature.
Grilling spatchcock chicken on a gas grill is a fantastic way to achieve mouthwatering results. By following the correct steps and ensuring the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature, you can enjoy tender and juicy meat with crispy and flavorful skin. Experiment with different seasonings and techniques to create your own signature grilled spatchcock chicken. So fire up your gas grill, get your spatchcock chicken ready, and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal!
Grilled Spatchcock Chicken | Simple Recipe
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I grill spatchcock chicken on a gas grill?
The cooking time for spatchcock chicken on a gas grill can vary depending on the size of the bird and the temperature of the grill. As a general guideline, a 4-pound spatchcock chicken should be grilled for about 45 minutes to 1 hour at a medium-high heat of around 400°F (200°C).
Should I preheat the gas grill before grilling spatchcock chicken?
Yes, it is recommended to preheat the gas grill before grilling spatchcock chicken. Preheating the grill ensures that it reaches the desired cooking temperature and helps to prevent the chicken from sticking to the grates.
How can I tell if the spatchcock chicken is cooked through?
The most accurate way to determine if the spatchcock chicken is cooked through is by using an instant-read thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, avoiding contact with bones. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Do I need to flip the spatchcock chicken while grilling?
It is not necessary to flip the spatchcock chicken while grilling. The direct heat from the gas grill cooks the chicken evenly on both sides, eliminating the need for flipping. However, you can rotate the chicken halfway through the cooking process for more even browning if desired.
Can I use a marinade or seasoning on spatchcock chicken before grilling?
Yes, marinating or seasoning the spatchcock chicken before grilling can enhance its flavor. You can use your favorite marinade or rub and let the chicken sit in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. Just make sure to pat the chicken dry before placing it on the grill to avoid flare-ups from excess marinade.
Should I let the spatchcock chicken rest before serving?
Yes, it is recommended to let the spatchcock chicken rest for about 5-10 minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Tent the chicken with foil during the resting period to keep it warm.
Final Thoughts
Grilling spatchcock chicken on a gas grill is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this flavorful dish. To ensure a perfectly cooked chicken, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Flip the chicken and continue grilling for another 10-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remember to rest the chicken for a few minutes before serving. So, if you’re wondering how long to grill spatchcock chicken on a gas grill, aim for approximately 20-24 minutes, turning once, and you’ll have a mouthwatering meal in no time.
