Ingredients

• 1 x 1.8kg Co-op whole British chicken
• 3 tbsp Co-op olive oil
• 1 tbsp each smoked paprika and ground cumin
• 1 tbsp Co-op Fairtrade light brown soft sugar
• Zest and juice of 1 lime, plus lime wedges to serve
• Salad leaves, to serve

Method

1. Prep the chicken: flip it over, breast-side down on a sturdy cutting board with the legs nearest to you
2. Take a pair of sharp kitchen scissors and carefully cut along each side of the back bone in the middle, then remove it (use it for stock!)
3. Flip the chicken back over
4. Using both hands, push down hard until the chicken flattens 
5. Combine the oil, spices, sugar, lime zest and juice, along with seasoning, in a small bowl
6. Use your hands to massage all over the chicken and marinate for at least 30 mins, or overnight, if possible, in the fridge
7. Fire up the barbecue
8. Take two metal skewers and gently push them through the chicken criss-crossed, entering through the legs
9. As soon as the flames have died down, place the chicken on the grill, breast-side down
10. Leave for 8-10 mins until well charred and almost crisp
11. Using tongs or a big spatula, turn the chicken over and move it to a cooler part of the barbecue
12. Cover with the lid or a large roasting tin, and cook for 45 mins to 1 hour, until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear 
13. Carefully remove it from the coals and allow to rest for 10-15 mins
14. Serve with lime wedges for squeezing over and salad leaves on the side