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Method

1. To spatchcock the chicken, turn it breast-side down with the legs towards you. Using very sturdy kitchen scissors or poultry shears, cut down one side of the parson’s nose and the backbone.Turn the chicken around and cut along the other side of the backbone, back to the parson’s nose. Remove this piece and discard. Flip the chicken breast-side up again and press down firmly on the breast bone to flatten it out.

2. Mix together the salt, peppercorns, herbs, paprika and lemon zest in a small bowl and whisk in the oil. Rub this mixture all over the chicken.

3. Put the chicken in a bowl or a plastic bag and pour over the lemon juice. Place in the fridge to marinate overnight or for at least 1 hour.

4. Remove the chicken from the fridge 1 hour before you are ready to cook it.

5. Put the chicken in the hot oven and reduce the temperature to 200C/Fan 180C/Gas 6. Roast for 35–40 minutes until cooked through and the juices run clear. Alternatively, cook the chicken on a barbecue, turning regularly until cooked through.

6. To oven cook, preheat the oven to its highest setting and put the chicken in a large roasting tray.