Prepare to indulge in a delightful culinary journey with this exotic and herb-infused Grilled or Broiled Chicken recipe. Bursting with fresh, aromatic herbs and enhanced with the flavors of the grill or broiler, this dish promises a sensational dining experience. The recipe allows for creative flexibility, allowing you to explore numerous seasoning variations to suit your taste preferences. In just 45 minutes, you can have a succulent and flavorful chicken dish that is perfect for enjoying outdoors on a warm day or any occasion that calls for a delicious, hearty meal.
MAKES: 4 servings
TIME: 45 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh lavender leaves (optional)
- 1/4 cup roughly chopped fresh parsley leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Extra virgin olive oil
- 8 bay leaves
- 1 whole chicken, 3 to 4 pounds, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 8 pieces, or any combination of parts
- Lemon wedges
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Begin by combining the fresh thyme leaves, chopped rosemary, and optional chopped lavender in a small bowl. Sprinkle the herbs with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adding enough extra virgin olive oil to create a paste-like consistency. This herb paste will infuse the chicken with delightful flavors during cooking.
- Loosen the skin of each chicken piece gently, creating space to insert a bay leaf between the skin and meat of each piece. Next, use your fingers to spread a portion of the herb paste under the skin of the chicken, ensuring an even distribution of flavors. Afterward, re-form the skin over the chicken flesh, sealing in the herb-infused goodness. Sprinkle a touch more salt and pepper over the chicken for added seasoning.
- Heat a charcoal or gas grill or preheat the broiler to moderate heat, placing the rack about 6 inches from the heat source. For grilling, reserve a cooler part of the grill for indirect cooking.
- If grilling, brush the chicken pieces with olive oil and place them skin side up on the cooler side of the grill. As the chicken cooks, some of the fat will render, so occasionally turn the chicken to prevent flare-ups. Once the skin has lost its raw appearance and most of the fat has been rendered (about 20 minutes), move the chicken directly over the fire. Cook, turning as needed, until both sides are beautifully browned, and the chicken flesh is firm and fully cooked (to check for doneness, cut into a piece close to the bone; the juices should run clear). This process typically takes an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
- Once the chicken is perfectly cooked and infused with the aromatic herb flavors, serve it hot, warm, or at room temperature. Accompany the dish with lemon wedges, adding a zesty touch to the succulent chicken.
This Grilled or Broiled Chicken recipe is a versatile canvas, inviting you to explore various seasoning options from the simple herb-infused paste to exciting flavor combinations like the deviled mustard glaze, citrus sauce, spicy maple syrup glaze, or the delectable soy glaze. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a special outdoor gathering with friends, this dish promises to impress and delight your taste buds. Get ready to savor tender, herb-infused chicken that is perfect for any occasion, from weekend barbecues to a delightful weeknight feast.
