ChefXi OfficialA soulful fusion of smoke and citrus, featuring spatchcocked chicken marinated in a vibrant guajillo chili paste and finished with a charred Meyer lemon glaze.
In a small skillet, toast the guajillo chilies over medium heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Soak in hot water for 10 minutes until soft.
Don't burn the chilies or they will turn bitter.
Blend the soaked chilies, garlic, olive oil, toasted cumin, and smoked paprika into a smooth paste.
Add a splash of the soaking water if the paste is too thick.
Rub the guajillo paste all over the spatchcocked chicken, ensuring it gets under the skin. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Marinate overnight in the fridge for the deepest flavor provenance.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Place the chicken skin-side down on the grates.
Use a grill press or a heavy cast-iron skillet on top of the chicken for maximum skin-to-grate contact.
Flip the chicken and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. During the last 5 minutes, place the Meyer lemon halves cut-side down on the grill.
Charring the lemons caramelizes their sugars and softens the acidity.
Squeeze the charred lemon juice into a small bowl and whisk with honey. Brush this glaze over the chicken just before removing from the grill.
The honey will flare up quickly, so watch it closely.
Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes before carving.
Resting is the final step in achieving culinary harmony.
The essence of this dish lies in the balance between the deep, earthy heat of the guajillo and the bright, floral notes of the Meyer lemon. Ensure your grill is screaming hot before the chicken hits the grates to achieve that signature char without overcooking the meat. Respect the lineage of the bird by letting it rest; those juices need time to find their harmony. Serve with charred spring onions or a simple herb salad.
Nutrition data is estimated and may not be fully accurate. This is not medical advice — consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
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