Main Course

Grilled Chicken with a Brick Weight

★★★★★ 4.6 (655)

Using a simple brick to press your chicken while grilling helps achieve perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat every time. This easy method adds amazing flavor and ensures even cooking for a delicious meal you'll love.

◷ 55 min Total Time

♜ 4 Servings

▥ Hard Difficulty

Jump to Recipe ↓

Ingredients

4 servings

1 (3 pound) whole chicken 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 pinch salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste heavy duty aluminum foil 2 clay bricks

Flaky Pastry Pockets with Chicken

Instructions

Step 1

Start by placing the chicken breast-side down on a cutting board. Use kitchen shears to cut out the backbone and about an inch of the breast bone. Trim off the wing tips and any large chunks of fat near the tail. Flip the chicken over and press down firmly with the heel of your hand to flatten it. Rub the skin with a little oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2

Next, tear off two sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil, about 20 inches long each, and wrap a brick in foil, shiny side out, for each one. Give the grill grate a light coating of oil, then add the wrapped bricks. Heat the grill to around 400°F and let the bricks get nice and hot.

Step 3

Once the grill is ready, turn off the middle burner and place the chicken, skin side down, over the indirect heat in the center. Set the foil-wrapped bricks on top of the chicken to weigh it down, then close the lid.

Step 4

Grill the chicken like this for about 40 minutes. After that, take off the bricks, flip the chicken over, and cook it for another 5 to 10 minutes so the skin gets nice and crispy. Check the temperature near the bone—it should read 165°F when it’s done. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Using a brick weight helps press the chicken evenly, ensuring it cooks faster and gets those beautiful grill marks. This method also creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It’s a simple trick that elevates your grilled chicken to the next level.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the chicken with a fresh side salad or grilled vegetables to complement the smoky flavor. A squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of your favorite sauce adds a bright, tangy touch that balances the richness of the meat.

Storage Tips

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop to keep the meat moist and flavorful. Avoid microwaving to prevent drying out.