Chicken in a Watermelon

1. 1

   Cut a 1/4-inch-thick horizontal slice off bottom of watermelon, so it won't roll.

2. 2

   Discard.

3. 3

   Cut off the top third of the melon horizontally, then scoop out seeds and enough of the pulp from both remaining parts to make room for the chicken.

4. 4

   Season cavity of chicken with salt and pepper.

5. 5

   Insert lemon pricked with fork, along with 1 tablespoon of the soy sauce.

6. 6

   Brush outside of chicken with remaining soy sauce, and sprinkle with five-spice powder.

7. 7

   Place chicken in the larger part of the melon, and position the other piece of melon on top, securing with long skewers.

8. 8

   Preheat oven to 400 degrees, and bake 2 hours.

9. 9

   Then, reduce heat to 300 degrees and bake 2 1/2 hours longer.

10. 10

    Place watermelon on a tray and show it to guests.

11. 11

    Return it to kitchen: remove chicken and carve.

12. 12

    With a ladle, remove juices from watermelon and reduce in skillet until thickened; whisk in cold butter and spoon over chicken before serving

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

No additional tips available.