Albanian Slow-Grilled Whole Chicken with Herbs

Introduction

Enjoy the rich flavors of Albanian cuisine with this slow-grilled whole chicken, infused with Mediterranean spices and grilled to perfection on the Arteflame grill. The combination of a high-temperature sear and slow cooking on the flat cooktop creates an incredibly juicy and tender chicken with a beautifully crisp skin. The grill's unique heat zones allow for perfect control, ensuring a restaurant-quality outcome every time.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (4-5 lbs)
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the napkins in the grill and stack firewood on top.
3. Light the paper napkins and allow the wood to ignite.
4. Wait about 20 minutes for the grill to reach optimal cooking temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, mix melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, oregano, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes.
2. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin for maximum flavor.
3. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

1. Place the whole chicken breast-side down on the center grill grate for 3-5 minutes until a golden crust forms.
2. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Slow-Grill on the Flat Cooktop

1. Move the chicken to the outer area of the flat cooktop where the heat is lower.
2. Grill the chicken, turning occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (for a final temp of 165°F after resting).
3. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from the grill once the internal temperature registers 150°F.
2. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
3. Carve and serve hot.

Tips

• For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken dry before seasoning.
• Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
• Always remove the chicken from the grill when it's 15°F below the desired final temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting.

Variations

1. Garlic-Lemon Chicken: Add extra garlic and double the lemon juice for a tangy, bold flavor.
2. Spicy Albanian Chicken: Increase the red pepper flakes and add smoked chili powder for more heat.
3. Citrus-Herb Chicken: Add orange zest and fresh parsley for a refreshing citrus touch.
4. Honey Glazed Chicken: Brush the chicken with a honey glaze in the last 10 minutes for a mildly sweet flavor.
5. Yogurt-Marinated Chicken: Marinate in Greek yogurt, garlic, and spices overnight for extra tenderness.

Conclusion

The Arteflame grill transforms this Albanian-inspired whole chicken into a masterpiece, balancing flavor, texture, and juiciness. The combination of high-heat searing and slow-grilling ensures a perfect outcome every time, while the robust Mediterranean spices bring a taste of Albania to your backyard. Enjoy the process, experiment with flavors, and savor every bite with friends and family!

Best Pairings

• Grilled flatbread with olive tapenade
• Charred vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant)
• Grilled potatoes with rosemary
• Fresh cucumber-tomato salad with feta
• Albanian red wine or a chilled white Sauvignon Blanc