spatchcock

American  

[spach-kok] / ˈspætʃˌkɒk /

noun

1. a dressed fowl that has had its backbone removed and has been split open and flattened so that it cooks more evenly when grilled, broiled, or roasted.

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verb (used with object)

1. to prepare and cook (a dressed fowl) in this manner.

2. to insert or interpolate, especially in a forced or incongruous manner.

   Additional information has been spatchcocked into the occasional random footnote.

spatchcock British  

/ ˈspætʃˌkɒk /

noun

1. a chicken or game bird split down the back and grilled Compare spitchcock

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verb

1. to interpolate (words, a story, etc) into a sentence, narrative, etc, esp inappropriately

Etymology

Origin of spatchcock

First recorded in 1775–85; apparently an alteration of spitchcock; popular interpretation as shortening of dispatch cock is specious

Example Sentences

It can also be combined with molasses when making a sweet tea and molasses-brined spatchcock chicken, per this recipe from Epicurious.

From Salon • Apr. 1, 2024

Fans, meanwhile, couldn't decide whether Smith was paying tribute to David Bowie or a spatchcock chicken.

From BBC • Feb. 12, 2023

I was immediately swamped with suggestions for spatchcock chicken and goat cheese rolled in Argentine blueberries.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2020

Following a few other courses — halibut ceviche presented on foot-shaped pedestals by Party, spatchcock quail atop face-like plates by Wine — the waiters cleared a long, narrow path across the table.

From New York Times • Aug. 28, 2019

The birds had been plucked and spread upon the embers, split open, spatchcock fashion, and when ready afforded our travellers a toothsome breakfast.

From Renshaw Fanning's Quest A Tale of the High Veldt by Mitford, Bertram