Spatchcock Chicken with Mustard Crust

Step 1

For the crust: Mix all the ingredients (except the chicken) in a small bowl.

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Using kitchen shears or a sharp knife, cut alongside the backbone of the chicken to split it open. Spread and press on the chicken with your hands to flatten it.

Step 3

Using a sharp paring knife, cut halfway through both sides of the joints connecting the thighs and drumsticks and cut through the joints of the shoulder under the wings as well. (This will help the heat penetrate these joints and accelerate the cooking process)

Step 4

Put the chicken skin side down on a cutting board and spread it with about half the mustard mixture.

Step 5

Place the chicken flat in a large skillet, skin side up, mustard side down. Spread the remaining mustard on the skin side of the chicken.

Step 6

Cook over high heat on the stove top for about 5 minutes (this is done in order to heat up the chicken, not to brown the skin).

Step 7

Next place the skillet in the oven and cook the chicken for about 30 minutes or until meat thermometer reaches 165 and juices run clear.

Step 8

The chicken should be well browned and dark on top.

Step 9

Let the chicken rest in the skillet at room temperature for a few minutes, then cut it into 8 pieces with clean kitchen shears.