Preheat the oven to 180oC (350oF/Gas
4). Using a large cleaver, cut the chicken in half by cutting down the
backbone and along the breastbone.
To prevent the wings burning, tuck them
underneath. Place the chicken, skin-side-up, on a rack in a baking dish
and bake for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, combine the chilies, garlic,
peppercorns and sugar in a small food processor or mortar and pestle and
process briefly, or pound, until smooth.
Add the soy sauce, turmeric, and lime
juice, and process in short bursts until combined.
Brush the spice mixture all over the
chicken, dot with the butter pieces and bake for another 25-30 minutes,
or until thoroughly cooked.
Serve warm or at room temperature,
garnished with lime wedges and fresh herbs.
