Chicken al Mattone: Authentic Italian Recipe Revealed

Chicken al Mattone, also known as Under Bricked Chicken, is a delectable recipe that promises tender and juicy chicken. This Italian culinary technique involves cooking the poultry under weight, resulting in crispy skin and succulent meat with intense flavors. In this article, we’ll dive into the ingredients, preparation process, handy tips, and serving suggestions to help you master this mouthwatering dish.

Chicken al Mattone, also known as Under Bricked Chicken, is a delectable dish that combines succulent chicken with a unique cooking technique. In this NLP-friendly SEO-optimized section, let’s dive into the definition, history, origin, and the intriguing name of this mouthwatering recipe.

Definition of Chicken al Mattone (Under Bricked Chicken) Recipe

Chicken al Mattone is an Italian dish that involves grilling or cooking a whole chicken pressed under a brick or heavy object. “Al Mattone” translates to “under the brick” in English. This method ensures even heat distribution and results in juicy meat with crisp skin.

History and Origin of the Dish

The origins of Chicken al Mattone can be traced back to Tuscany in Italy. Historically, bricks were heated by placing them near an open fire. These hot bricks were then used to cook chicken by placing them on top of it while it was being cooked over an open flame.

Over time, the popularity of this cooking technique spread beyond Italy’s borders and found its way into other cuisines around the world. Today, you can find variations of Under Bricked Chicken in many Mediterranean and Latin American countries.

Why It’s Called “Under Bricked Chicken”

The peculiar name “Under Bricked Chicken” stems from the traditional method of preparing this dish. As mentioned earlier, a brick or heavy object is placed on top of the chicken while it cooks. This weight acts as a press and helps flatten the bird for more even cooking.

But let’s admit it; calling it “Flattened Chicken Cooked with a Brick on Top” doesn’t have quite the same ring to it! Hence, people adopted the more catchy name “Chicken al Mattone, ” evoking images of culinary creativity coupled with ancient traditions.

Ingredients: A Mouthwatering Medley

In this section, we’ll dive into the world of ingredients for your delightful recipe. It’s time to stock up on all the goodies that will make your taste buds do a happy dance! Get ready to tantalize your senses and discover where you can find these fantastic ingredients.

List of Ingredients

Let’s start with the essentials. Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need for this delicious dish:

• Organic carrots
• Fresh basil leaves
• Juicy tomatoes
• Crisp lettuce
• Creamy avocado
• Tangy pickles
• Zesty mustard

Feel free to adjust quantities depending on how many people you plan to impress with your culinary skills. Plus, don’t forget to get extras because everyone will be craving seconds!

Where to Purchase Ingredients

1. Local Farmers Markets: Support local growers while getting the freshest produce available in town. Not only will you find high-quality ingredients, but it’s also an opportunity to connect with your community.

2. Neighborhood Grocery Stores: Convenient and easily accessible, local grocery stores are treasure troves filled with every ingredient imaginable. Explore different brands and variations for extra options.

3. Online Food Delivery Services: In this digital age, convenience is just a click away! Online platforms like Fresh4U or OrganicDelights bring fresh groceries right to your doorstep – no need to brave long supermarket queues!

Remember, sourcing fresh, organic produce not only enhances the flavor but also contributes positively towards sustainable farming practices.

Substitution Options

Sometimes life likes throwing surprises our way; perhaps an unexpected ingredient shortage or dietary restrictions might get in the way of cooking heaven on a plate. But fret not, my friend! We have some nifty ingredient substitutions up our sleeves:

1. Carrots: If you’re out of carrots, sweet potatoes can add a similar touch of sweetness and earthiness to your recipe.

2. Basil Leaves: Swap fresh basil leaves with dried basil if the supermarket shelves are bare. Though the flavor won’t be as intense, it’ll still do the trick!

3. Tomatoes: When tomatoes go undercover during certain seasons, sun-dried tomatoes can step in delightfully. Soak them in warm water for a few minutes before using to soften their texture.

4. Lettuce: Opt for spinach or arugula instead of lettuce for a peppery kick and added nutrients.

5. Avocado: In times of avocado scarcity (oh no!), mashed peas can fill in quite nicely with their creaminess.

6. Pickles: Sometimes pickles like going on vacation too! Sauerkraut or thinly sliced cucumbers work wonders as pickle alternatives.

7. Mustard: Dijon or whole-grain mustard are marvelous substitutes if yellow mustard decides to take an unscheduled break from your local store’s shelves.

Preparation

Preparing a mouthwatering chicken dish requires some essential steps. From getting the chicken ready to marinating it and setting up the grill, every detail counts. Today, I’ll walk you through the process of making the delectable “Chicken al Mattone” recipe while sprinkling in some subtle humor along the way.

Preparing the Chicken

Before we dive into the marinade frenzy, let’s make sure our central ingredient is properly prepped. You don’t want any feathers or surprises ruining your meal!

1. Start by cleaning the chicken thoroughly in cold water. Remember, we need our poultry squeaky clean!
2. Pat dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Remove any innards that might be hiding inside (no bonuses from Mother Nature here!).
4. Trim off any excess fat because we want lean and mean birds for our grill.
5. Finally, take a moment to admire your perfectly prepped chicken before moving on.

Preparing the Marinade

Ah, now comes the exciting part — preparing a flavorful marinade that will elevate your taste buds’ experience to new heights! Let’s gather all those tantalizing ingredients:

• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic
• Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary)

• Salt and pepper

• In a bowl, mix together olive oil and lemon juice in equal proportions – they’re going to be best buddies!

• Crush some garlic cloves and add them to the mixture; vampires beware!
• Finely chop those aromatic herbs (thyme and rosemary) like an herbal Picasso.
• Sprinkle salt and pepper into the bowl – just enough to make things interesting!

Now give it a good mix until everything is nicely blended together like pieces of musical harmony coming together for an epic symphony.

Marinating the Chicken

Time to let our chicken soak up all those incredible flavors and turn into a taste sensation. Here’s how to make that happen:

1. Place the prepped chicken in a big, sturdy ziplock bag or a marinating container – but please, no Tupperware tantrums.
2. Pour your marinade all over the chicken, ensuring it gets cozy with the bird from every angle.
3. Seal the bag/container tightly and gently massage it like you’re giving a spa treatment to your chicken (they deserve some pampering too!).

Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 4 hours or even overnight if patience is not your strongest suit.

Setting up the Grill

Now imagine yourself as a grill maestro wearing an imaginary chef’s hat while setting up everything perfectly:

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat – we want this party to sizzle!
2. While the grill is heating up, take this time to mentally psych yourself up for grilling greatness.
3. Lightly oil the grates so that our flavorful chicken doesn’t get stuck like glue when it’s time to flip.

Cooking the Chicken al Mattone (Under Bricked Chicken) Recipe

Here comes the grand finale! We’ll be cooking our marinated masterpiece using an Italian technique called “al Mattone, ” which means “under brick” in English.

1. Remove the chicken from its marinade bath and let any excess drip off – goodbye, excess marinade!
2. Place your lovely poultry on one side of the grill and put a preheated brick (wrapped in aluminum foil) on top of it – talk about some serious pressure!
3. Cook each side for around 10-15 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) – you want juicy perfection inside without any food safety concerns.
4. Once cooked, remove that glorious piece of grilled artistry from under its bricky companion.

Voila! You’ve successfully prepared, marinated, grilled, and conquered the Chicken al Mattone recipe. Now it’s time to indulge in some succulent flavors that will transport you to foodie heaven.

Remember, cooking is not just about following a recipe — it’s about making memories, having fun with flavors, and creating delicious meals that bring joy to your taste buds. So go forth, grill like a champ, and let your culinary prowess shine!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken al Mattone (Under Bricked Chicken) Recipe

Are you ready to become a culinary master with your own rendition of the delicious Chicken al Mattone? Look no further! In this section, we will equip you with all the tips and tricks you need to create a mouthwatering dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. From achieving crispy skin to juicy and tender meat, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!

Tips for a Perfect Chicken al Mattone Recipe:

1. Choosing the Right Bird: Start by selecting a high-quality chicken. Look for one that is organic or free-range as they tend to have superior flavor and texture.

2. Prepping for Success: Proper preparation is key! Before cooking, make sure to dry the chicken thoroughly with paper towels. This will help ensure that you achieve that coveted crispy skin.

3. Flavorful Marinades: Elevate your chicken by marinating it before cooking. Consider using a combination of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, herbs like rosemary or thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. Brining Brilliance: For an extra boost of flavor and moisture, try brining your chicken beforehand. Soak it in a mixture of water, salt, sugar (optional), herbs, and spices for at least an hour or overnight in the fridge.

5. Hotter than Hot Pan: When it comes time to cook your chicken, preheat your pan on medium-high heat until it gets hot enough to sear the meat perfectly.

6. Weight It Down: As the name suggests (“al mattone” means “under brick” in Italian), use a heavy weight like a cast-iron skillet or brick wrapped in foil to press down on the chicken while it cooks. This technique helps achieve even browning and ensures that every bite is moist and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

1. Skipping the Drying Step: Patience is a virtue! Skipping the step of drying your chicken before cooking can lead to less crispy skin and uneven browning.

2. Forgetting to Season Properly: Don’t be shy with the seasoning. Chicken needs a good amount of salt and pepper both inside and outside for maximum flavor.

3. Crowding the Pan: If you overcrowd the pan, there won’t be enough space for air circulation, resulting in steaming rather than searing. Cook the chicken in batches if needed to ensure proper browning.

4. Overcooking Woes: Pay close attention to avoid overcooking your chicken as it can quickly dry out, leaving you with tough meat instead of those tender morsels you’re aiming for. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness (165°F or 74°C at the thickest part of the meat).

How to Get Crispy Skin:

1. Dry It Out: As mentioned earlier, thoroughly drying your chicken before cooking will help remove excess moisture on the skin, giving it a better chance to become beautifully crispy during cooking.

2. Higher Heat: Cooking your chicken at a higher temperature helps render fat from beneath the skin, achieving that desired crispiness.

3. Butter Basting Brilliance: During cooking, baste your chicken with melted butter or oil using a brush or spoon every few minutes. This additional fat enhances browning and adds extra flavor while keeping the skin moist too.

4. Avoid Moisture: To maintain crispy skin throughout serving time avoid stacking pieces on top of each other as steam from hotter pieces will soften the skin. Spread cooked pieces on wire baking rack; bake them uncovered in preheated oven until served.

How to Get Juicy and Tender Meat:

1. Brining: Brine your chicken to infuse it with flavor and maintain moisture. The saltwater solution penetrates the meat, resulting in a juicier end product.

2. Low-and-Slow Cooking: Cook your chicken over medium heat for a longer duration instead of using high heat. This gentle technique ensures that the meat cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out.

3. Trussing Technique: Trussing is a method of tying up the chicken with kitchen twine to help retain its shape and promote even cooking. This technique also helps prevent the breast from drying out before the legs are fully cooked.

4. Rest, Rest, Rest: Once cooked, let your chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing into it. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute and results in tender, succulent meat.

Serving Suggestions

So, you’ve successfully cooked that mouthwatering Chicken al Mattone (Under Bricked Chicken) Recipe, and now you’re wondering how to serve it up in style. Fear not! I’ve got you covered with some fantastic serving suggestions that will take your meal to the next level. Let’s dive right in!

How to Serve the Chicken al Mattone Recipe?

When it comes to presenting this Italian classic, simplicity is key. The Chicken al Mattone recipe creates a deliciously crispy and flavorful chicken dish that deserves all the attention. Here are a few tips on how to serve it like a pro:

1. Presentation Matters: Place your beautifully cooked chicken on a large platter or cutting board. This rustic approach adds an appealing touch of home-cooked charm.

2. Garnish Galore: Sprinkle some fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, over the golden skin of the chicken for added visual appeal and aroma.

3. Slice with Precision: Use a sharp knife or kitchen shears to cut the chicken into individual portions, ensuring each plate gets its fair share of crispy skin and succulent meat.

4. Serve Hot Off The Grill: For maximum enjoyment, make sure to serve the Chicken al Mattone immediately after cooking while it’s still piping hot.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Chicken al Mattone?

Now that we have our star dish ready, let’s talk about its sidekick – side dishes! Here are some delectable options that pair perfectly with Chicken al Mattone:

• Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: These crispy potatoes seasoned with Parmesan cheese complement the flavors of the juicy chicken brilliantly.

• Grilled Vegetables: Asparagus spears, zucchini slices, bell peppers – grill them until tender-crisp and drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of freshness.

• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil leaves drizzled with balsamic reduction create a refreshing accompaniment to the rich flavors of Chicken al Mattone.

Wine Pairing Options

No dining experience is complete without a glass of wine, right? When it comes to pairing wine with your Chicken al Mattone, there are a few options that can elevate your taste buds:

1. Chardonnay: A full-bodied Chardonnay with its buttery notes complements the richness of the dish quite well.

2. Pinot Noir: The fruity and light character of Pinot Noir balances out the flavors while adding a touch of elegance to the meal.

3. Rosé: For those seeking a lighter option, a chilled glass of Rosé brings both acidity and crispness to cut through the richness of the chicken.

Remember, these are just suggestions! Don’t be afraid to explore and find your own perfect pairing based on personal preferences and desired flavor profiles.

Chicken Under A Brick | Jamie’S Italian (Video)

Concluding Key Notes:

• Chicken al Mattone delivers a flavorful and succulent eating experience.
• The secret lies in cooking the chicken under weight to achieve crispy skin.
• Use quality ingredients like olive oil and fresh herbs for an authentic taste.
• Preheat your grill or skillet to ensure even cooking throughout.
• Serve with accompanying vegetables or sides for a complete meal.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook Chicken al Mattone?

The cooking time varies depending on the size of the chicken but typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour.

Can I use other meats for this cooking method?

While traditionally prepared with chicken, you can experiment with other meats like Cornish hens or game birds using the same technique.

Do I need a brick or heavy object to make this recipe?

Although a brick is commonly used to press down on the chicken while cooking, you can substitute it with a cast iron skillet or any heavy object that provides even pressure.