When the aroma of roasted chicken fills the air, it’s hard not to feel a sense of warmth and comfort. That’s exactly what you’ll experience with this Brick Chicken recipe, where juicy meat meets a gloriously crispy skin, all thanks to an ingenious Italian technique. I stumbled upon this method one lazy Sunday, intrigued by the prospect of a dish that sounded fancy yet was incredibly straightforward to prepare.
Imagine an effortless dinner where the hardest part is finding a brick, wrapped in tin foil to keep things clean! This Brick Chicken is beautifully enhanced by a spicy herb pan sauce, making it a versatile centerpiece for any table. Whether you’re serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, or simply a glass of wine, it’s bound to impress. Join me as we dive into this easy recipe that promises maximum flavor with minimal fuss!
Why is Brick Chicken a must-try recipe?
Flavorful Experience: The crispy skin combined with juicy, tender meat creates a mouthwatering culinary delight.
Simplicity in Preparation: With just a heavy brick and a few basic ingredients, anyone can master this Italian technique!
Versatile Pairings: It shines alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a simple salad.
Great for Gatherings: This impressive dish will wow your guests, making any occasion special.
Time-Saving: Once it’s in the oven, you can relax and catch up with family while dinner cooks itself!
Brick Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken (about 3-4 pounds) – The heart of the dish, providing savory meat; feel free to use a cut-up chicken if you prefer.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning, enhancing the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Offers depth and complexity; a fresh grind gives the best flavor.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (2 Tbsp) – Adds richness and helps prevent sticking; you can swap with melted butter for a richer taste.
For the Spicy Herb Pan Sauce
• Shallot, minced (1) – Adds a sweet and aromatic kick to the sauce; onion can be a substitute if needed.
• Jalapeño (1, finely chopped) – Infuses a welcome heat; remove seeds for milder flavor or use bell pepper as a no-heat option.
• White Wine (1/4 cup) – Enhances the sauce’s depth; switch to chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
• Juice of 1 Lime – Provides bright acidity to balance richness; lemon juice also works in a pinch.
• Unsalted Butter (2 Tbsp) – Contributes creaminess to the sauce; swap with olive oil for a lighter option.
• Cilantro, roughly chopped (1/4 cup) – Fresh herb infusion for the sauce; parsley can replace it for a milder flavor.
Dive into the heart of this delicious Brick Chicken recipe and let each ingredient inspire your kitchen adventures!
How to Make Brick Chicken
- Prepare Chicken: Begin by seasoning the chicken generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is key to enhancing the overall flavor and ensuring a delicious bite every time.
- Sear on Stovetop: Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the chicken in the skillet, skin-side down, and weigh it down with a heavy brick wrapped in tin foil. Sear until the skin is golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook in Oven: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, which should take about 40-45 minutes. The juices will run clear when it’s ready.
- Make Sauce: While the chicken is baking, use the same skillet to create the spicy herb pan sauce. Sauté the minced shallot and finely chopped jalapeño until fragrant. Deglaze the pan with 1/4 cup of white wine, then stir in the juice of 1 lime and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Finish by adding 1/4 cup of roughly chopped cilantro.
- Serve: Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, plate it and drizzle generously with the spicy herb pan sauce. Pair it with sides like swiss chard or creamy mashed potatoes for a memorable meal.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an extra touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Brick Chicken Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on this scrumptious dish, as customization can elevate your Brick Chicken experience!
- Cornish Hens: Replace the whole chicken with cornish hens for perfectly portioned individual servings; they cook just as beautifully under a brick.
- Mild Peppers: Swap the jalapeño for a bell pepper to keep it mild; it adds a subtle sweetness without the heat, perfect for the whole family.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs by substituting cilantro with dill or basil for a different flavor profile in your pan sauce; these herbs bring bright notes!
- Citrus Swap: For a zesty twist, use grapefruit or orange juice instead of lime; the sweet acidity enhances the sauce and adds a refreshing flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, double the amount of jalapeño, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pan sauce for an extra layer of spice!
- Butter Alternatives: For a dairy-free version, replace unsalted butter with olive oil or vegan butter; this keeps the sauce creamy without the dairy.
- Wine-Free Sauce: Skip the wine and use low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth instead for a family-friendly version without alcohol; the flavor remains rich and delicious.
- Nutty Flavor: Add toasted pine nuts or walnuts to the sauce for a delightful crunch; this boosts the texture while complementing the overall dish beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Brick Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover Brick Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for quick meals.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken without sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To maintain that crispy skin, reheat the chicken in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the skin soggy.
Storage Tip: Always allow the chicken to cool completely before sealing in a container to prevent condensation and keep it delicious!
Expert Tips for Brick Chicken
- Room Temperature Chicken: Ensure your chicken is at room temperature before searing. This helps to achieve that crispy skin while preventing uneven cooking.
- Press with a Heavy Brick: Use a substantial brick for pressing the chicken down. It ensures even cooking and crispy skin without burning.
- Wrap the Brick: Always wrap the brick in tin foil. This prevents it from transferring unwanted flavors to the chicken and makes clean-up a breeze.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking. This prevents over-browning and ensures a juicy, tender result.
- Experiment with Peppers: Feel free to adjust the jalapeño based on your spice preference. Doubling the amount provides extra heat, while bell peppers make it milder.
- Serve with Fresh Herbs: For an extra flavor boost, garnish your Brick Chicken with additional fresh herbs, enhancing both taste and presentation!
Make Ahead Options
These Brick Chicken preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during meal prep! You can season and marinate the chicken with kosher salt and black pepper up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Additionally, you can prepare the spicy herb pan sauce ahead, storing it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it gently before serving to keep the flavors vibrant. When ready to cook, simply sear the marinated chicken in the skillet and finish in the oven as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delicious results with even less hassle during your weeknight dinner!
What to Serve with Brick Chicken?
As you savor the delightful flavors of Brick Chicken, consider these perfect companions to create a well-rounded meal experience!
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their rich, buttery texture balances the crispy chicken, perfect for soaking up that spicy herb pan sauce.
- Sautéed Swiss Chard: This leafy green adds a hint of bitterness, brightening the dish and bringing a healthy aspect to your plate.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: The sweetness of carrots and parsnips caramelized to perfection provides a delicious contrast to the savory chicken.
- Garlic Bread: Indulge in crusty baguettes slathered in garlic butter, designed for dipping in every last drop of sauce.
- Light Green Salad: A crunchy, refreshing salad with citrus vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the chicken, enhancing the overall experience.
- Crisp White Wine: Pair your meal with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc, complementing the spice of the sauce while adding a refreshing note.
- Tiramisu: Cap off the meal with this classic Italian dessert, layering coffee-soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone for an indulgent finish.
Brick Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for Brick Chicken?
Absolutely! I recommend using a whole chicken weighing about 3-4 pounds for the best flavor and juicy texture. If you’re looking for alternative options, feel free to use cut-up pieces of chicken, as they will cook faster and can be easier to serve individually.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The key is to check the internal temperature! Using a meat thermometer, ensure the chicken reaches 165°F in the thickest part, usually around the breast or thigh. You can also tell it’s done if the juices run clear when pierced, which typically takes about 40-45 minutes in the oven after searing.
How should I store leftover Brick Chicken?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken moist and flavorful. When ready to enjoy, reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to maintain that signature crispy skin.
Can I freeze Brick Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the chicken to cool completely and then place it without sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date, and when you’re ready to enjoy it again, defrost it in the fridge overnight. For reheating, pop it in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes to re-crisp the skin.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
Great question! If you’re serving this dish to guests, consider their dietary needs. The recipe contains chicken and dairy (butter), so for those who are lactose intolerant, you can easily swap the unsalted butter with olive oil. Additionally, if anyone has a spice sensitivity, adjust the jalapeño to suit their palate by either removing the seeds or using a milder pepper.
What should I do if the skin isn’t crispy?
If you find your chicken skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like, there are a couple of things to adjust. First, make sure the chicken is at room temperature before cooking, as this helps it cook evenly. Second, ensure that the brick you’re using is heavy enough to press down the chicken firmly during the searing process. Lastly, keep an eye on the cooking time near the final minutes to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.
Crispy Brick Chicken with Spicy Herb Sauce You'll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Sear on Stovetop: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Place chicken skin-side down and weigh it down with a brick. Sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook in Oven: Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 400°F. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, about 40-45 minutes.
- Make Sauce: Sauté shallots and jalapeño. Deglaze with white wine, add lime juice and butter, then stir in cilantro.
- Serve: Plate the chicken, drizzle with sauce, and pair with sides like mashed potatoes.
