Mexican Roadside Chicken

 

Ummmmm, more chicken!  Sorry about the way it looks - a certain husband began to pick at it before I could take a picture!  Also notice it is a bit "flat"?  Well that comes from butterflying or spatchcocking it.  Basically that means cutting it down the breastbone to open it up.  You get the benefit of the roasting tenderness with a faster cooking time.

The first bite brought about an OMG moment!  It is juicy with a crisp skin but the flavor infused throughout the meat. 

I served this chicken with ranchero beans, a cabbage and red pepper slaw and corn tortillas for wrapping.  This is truly my favorite meal!

Mexican Roadside Chicken (by Rick Bayless)

• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ancho chile powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano, preferably Mexican
• A big pinch of ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 2 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped or crushed through a garlic press
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon salt, plus a little more for the onions
• 1 large chicken, about 3 lbs, butterflied
• 2 large bunches of green onions or knob onions
• A little olive oil for brushing the onions

1. Light a chimney 3/4 full of charcoal. While the charcoal is lighting, mix all the ingredients for the rub together in a small bowl.
2. When the charcoal is fully lit and covered in gray ash, pour coals out and arrange them on one side of the charcoal grate, keeping the other side empty. Place the chicken over the cool side of the grill, skin side down, and brush exposed side with the wet rub. Flip the chicken over and brush the other side with the rub. Cover the grill and cook, basting occasionally with any remaining rub, at 350 degrees until an instant read thermometer reads 165 degrees when inserted into the thickest part of the breast, about 45 minutes. Remove the chicken from the grill and allow to rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. While the chicken is resting, brush the onions with olive oil and season with salt. Place the onions over the hot side of the grill and cook until tender and browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. To serve, cut the chicken into quarters, top with green onions and your favorite salsa.