
Spatchcocking a whole chicken is one of those techniques that looks impressive but is genuinely straightforward, and the payoff — shatteringly crisp skin and juicy, evenly cooked meat — is absolutely worth it. The herb paste here is built from coconut oil, fresh rosemary, garlic, thyme, turmeric, and a hit of apple cider vinegar, and pressing it directly under the skin means every bite is deeply flavored rather than just seasoned on the surface. Roasting at a high 425°F on a wire rack lets hot air circulate all around the bird, so you get that golden, crackling exterior without any fussing. The roasted lemon halves squeezed over the carved pieces at the end add a bright, caramelized citrus note that ties everything together beautifully. Tree nut concerns can make rich, aromatic dishes feel off-limits, but this one relies entirely on coconut oil, fresh herbs, and pantry spices — nothing hidden, nothing ambiguous. It's the kind of centerpiece roast that feels special enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a weeknight when you want something genuinely satisfying on the table.
Fig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →4 servings











Position a rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat to 425°F (220°C). Set a wire rack inside a rimmed baking sheet.
Place the chicken breast-side down on a cutting board. Using kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the backbone from tail to neck and remove it entirely. Flip the chicken breast-side up, open it flat, and press firmly down on the breastbone with the heel of your hand until you hear a crack and the bird lies flat.
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!
