As Braai Day approaches, South Africans are preparing to fire up their braais and indulge in delicious grilled meats. One of the most popular dishes is the chicken flattie, a spatchcocked chicken that's easy to cook and pleases a crowd. According to food enthusiast Tony Jackman, a chicken flattie can feed four people, so those hosting larger gatherings may want to consider cooking two. With a few simple ingredients and some creative twists, anyone can create a mouth-watering chicken flattie.
The key to cooking a perfect chicken flattie is to allow enough time for it to cook through to the bone. Jackman advises that it takes around 40 to 45 minutes to cook, and the best way to check if it's done is to cut to the bone with a small knife. This ensures that the heat has reached the thickest part of the chicken and that it's cooked to perfection. To avoid burning the outside, it's essential to turn the chicken regularly while it's on the braai.
For those looking for a classic recipe, the chutney chicken flattie is a family favorite. This dish features a spatchcocked chicken skewered and braaied with a mixture of Mrs. H.S. Ball's chutney, All Gold tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and mayo. The best part is that all the ingredients are readily available in a South African store cupboard or fridge. This recipe is perfect for those who want to stick to traditional flavors.
Another creative recipe is the spatchcock chicken with espetada-style aromatics. This dish features chicken, bay leaves, garlic, and coarse salt, all skewered and grilled to perfection. This recipe is inspired by traditional espetada, but with a twist. Those who want to try something new and exciting will love this recipe.
For those who want to try something a bit different, the spatchcock chicken smoke-braaied under a dome is an interesting option. This recipe involves marinating the chicken in Dijon mustard mixed with honey and then cooking it under a wok lid to infuse a smoky flavor. Although it's not traditional smoked chicken, it has a unique flavor that's sure to impress.
The chicken flattie with lime-garlic butter is another recipe that's sure to delight. This dish features a spatchcocked chicken with a zesty lime and garlic butter sauce. The combination of flavors is perfect for those who want something a bit lighter and fresher. The citrusy flavor of the lime pairs perfectly with the richness of the garlic.
Finally, the Asian-marinated spatchcock chicken is a great option for those who want to try something new. This recipe features a citrussy marinade with plenty of garlic and ginger, which is perfect for those who love Asian-inspired flavors. The best part is that the chicken can be marinated the night before, making it easy to prepare for a braai.
Key points
- Five creative ways to braai a chicken flattie include chutney chicken flattie, espetada-style aromatics, smoke-braaied under a dome, lime-garlic butter, and Asian-marinated.
