Best Easy Pollo al Mattone Recipe

Chicken pressed under a brick for ultra-crispy skin and juicy meat. This high protein chicken dish is a mediterranean family favorite that's fresh, simple, and perfect for a healthy dinner.

Cook 55 min Difficulty NORMAL 360 kcal
#mediterranean #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • whole chicken (spatchcocked) 3 lbs
  • fresh rosemary 2 tbsp
  • fresh thyme 1 tbsp
  • lemon 1 pieces
  • garlic cloves 3 cloves
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 3 tbsp
  • kosher salt 1.5 tsp
  • black pepper 1 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 2 g 2%
Protein 42 g 47%
Fat 21 g 51%
Serving size 220g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Pat the spatchcocked chicken dry and rub with 2 tbsp olive oil, making sure to coat all sides and especially under the skin as much as possible.

  2. 2

    Finely chop the rosemary, thyme, and garlic cloves; zest the lemon. Mix these with kosher salt and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture generously over and under the chicken skin.

  3. 3

    Preheat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat for 3 minutes, then add 1 tbsp olive oil and swirl to coat the pan.

  4. 4

    Place the chicken skin-side down in the hot skillet. Lay a sheet of parchment or foil on top and set a heavy brick or second skillet directly over the chicken to press it flat. Reduce the heat to medium-low.

  5. 5

    Cook the chicken under the weight for about 18–20 minutes without moving, allowing the skin to crisp deeply without burning.

  6. 6

    Carefully remove the weight and flip the chicken. Squeeze half of the lemon over the top, then cook uncovered for another 12–15 minutes, or until the meat juices run clear and the internal temperature at the thickest part reaches 165°F.

  7. 7

    Rest the chicken for at least 5 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining lemon cut into wedges alongside.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Pollo al Mattone recipe?
The essential ingredient is a whole chicken, spatchcocked for even cooking and maximum contact with the hot pan. Fresh rosemary, thyme, and lemon further define the dish's classic Mediterranean flavor.
Q. Why does this recipe use a brick and how does heat control affect the result?
A brick or heavy skillet is used to press the chicken flat, ensuring consistent skin contact with the pan. Combined with medium to medium-low heat, this technique achieves ultra-crispy skin while keeping the meat juicy without burning.
Q. How can I make sure the chicken stays juicy and not overcooked?
Avoid high heat, and don't move the chicken while it's pressed. After flipping, check the thickest part for a clear juice or 165°F temp, then rest the chicken before serving; this ensures tenderness and juiciness.
Q. How many calories and how much protein are in each serving?
Each serving contains about 360 kcal and 42 grams of protein, making this a high-protein meal. Protein contributes 47% of total calories in this dish.
Q. Is this Pollo al Mattone recipe low in carbs or suitable for Mediterranean diets?
Yes; this dish has only 2 grams of carbs per serving (just 2% of calories) and features olive oil, fresh herbs, and lemon, making it very suitable for Mediterranean diet preferences.
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