First things first: spatchco*ck the chicken
Put the chicken breast-side down on a large chopping board. Using sharp kitchen scissors/shears, cut closely along each side of the backbone (leaving the 2 meaty ‘oysters’ in place, near where the legs are attached) and remove it. You could freeze the spine for stock (see further down). Turn the chicken breast-side up, then press down firmly on the breastbone to flatten and open out the chicken.
Meal 1: Spatchco*cked roast chicken with orzo and roast vegetables
Spatchocking a chicken cuts down the cooking time as the bird cooks faster and more evenly. All the buttery cooking juices are caught in the tray below with the vegetables, creating a fantastic self-made sauce to be mixed with the orzo.
Meal 2: Chicken, leek and ham pasties
Use the leftover leg meat from the roast chicken to fill these rich, nourishing pasties. They’re great straight from the oven or as a make-ahead lunch for when you’re on the move.
Meal 3 Freekeh, chicken and pomegranate salad
The beauty of this hearty, flavoursome salad is that all you have to cook is the freekeh – a nutty grain with a pleasingly chewy texture. It’s zingy, light and perfect for warmer evenings.
Meal 4: Chicken and mango coconut curry
Possibly the quickest, simplest curry you’ll ever make. Fresh mango gives this dish sweetness and offsets the heat of the chilli, while balancing brilliantly with the fragrant spices. Serve in bowls, scattered with sliced chilli and coriander leaves, with cooked rice.
Meal 5: Black bean and chicken burritos
Make sure you get every little bit of chicken left, including the two ‘oysters’ from near the thigh sockets, to make these burritos for a final lunch or supper. The beans helps to add protein and keep this dish filling. Plus who doesn’t love a burrito?
And finally…
Don’t neglect the carcass – gently simmer it in water for 1-2 hours with salt, some chunks of veg (onion, carrot, celery or any veg peelings) and aromatics (peppercorns, bay leaves, rosemary, garlic). Then strain into a jug for a chicken stock that beats any you could get at a shop. Freeze in portions.
