Baked Split Chicken Breast Recipe

Name: Baked Split Chicken Breast
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 100 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 2 large bone-in chicken breast halves with skin; 0.25 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 0.5 teaspoon garlic, minced; 0.5 teaspoon coarse sea salt; 0.5 teaspoon cracked black pepper; 0.25 teaspoon dried rosemary; 0.25 teaspoon dried basil

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Transform bone-in chicken breasts into a golden, garlicky, and juicy meal with this easy recipe. This dish will elevate any dinner with crispy, flavorful chicken that comes together in no time. You'll be amazed at how quickly it cooks and how simple the preparation is!

Ready to make your oven-baked chicken breast thats juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside? Follow these simple steps:

How to Make Baked Split Chicken Breast

This herb-infused chicken recipe is packed with flavor. Youll want to use large bone-in chicken breasts for the best result. Coat them with olive oil, garlic, and a mix of salt, pepper, rosemary, and basil, and let the flavors meld together in the fridge. Heres how to make it:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Take the chicken breasts and rub them with olive oil and minced garlic. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, rosemary, and basil. Place the chicken in a large baking dish, ensuring it's evenly spaced. Cover and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse the meat.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

While the chicken is marinating, preheat your oven to 375F (190C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you're ready to bake the chicken.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (75C). Youll know the chicken is cooked through when the juices run clear and theres no pink at the bone. An instant-read thermometer is the best tool to check doneness.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, take it out of the oven. Serve hot and enjoy the crispy, flavorful chicken!

How Long to Cook Chicken Breast

Cooking bone-in chicken breasts at 375F for 45 to 60 minutes should yield perfectly cooked meat. Always check for an internal temperature of 165F (75C) to ensure its fully cooked and safe to eat. The meat should be juicy, tender, and have no pink around the bone.

How to Store and Freeze Baked Split Chicken Breast

Having pre-cooked chicken on hand is great for quick meals. If you have leftovers, store them properly:

Refrigeration: Store baked chicken breasts in an airtight or tightly wrapped in foil or plastic wrap. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: If you want to extend the shelf life, you can freeze the baked chicken for up to 3 months. Wrap the chicken in grease-proof paper and then place it in an airtight for best results.

Allrecipes Community Tips

Heres what the community has to say about this recipe:

"Great recipe and very easy way to put tasty chicken on the table with minimal effort," says home cook alexpk321. "I covered the chicken with aluminum foil, baked for 1 hour, and it came out moist and delicious."

"We made this just as the recipe called and for and now it is one of our go-to favorites!" raves reviewer momma pullen. "We love to add fresh tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and cucumber sprinkled with chopped basil to this meal in warmer months."

"I didn't have rosemary but added a Mrs. Dash alternative," shares julie. "I did broil it during the last 15 minutes and it came out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Great tasting and it seems healthy. Will definitely make it again."

Ingredients

2 large bone-in chicken breast halves with skin
cup extra-virgin olive oil
teaspoon garlic, minced
teaspoon coarse sea salt
teaspoon cracked black pepper
teaspoon dried rosemary
teaspoon dried basil

Directions

Gather all ingredients.
Rub chicken breasts with olive oil and garlic; sprinkle with salt, black pepper, rosemary, and basil. Arrange chicken in a large baking dish.
Refrigerate for at least 45 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Preheat the oven to 375F (190C).
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 45 to 60 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165F (75C) and juices run clear.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious meal!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories: 615
Total Fat: 42g (54% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 8g (40% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 153mg (51% Daily Value)
Sodium: 570mg (25% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 1g (0% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 0g (1% Daily Value)
Protein: 55g (109% Daily Value)
Iron: 7mg (41% Daily Value)
Potassium: 466mg (10% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Baked Split Chicken Breast Recipe

Baked Split Chicken Breast is a simple yet delicious recipe that transforms bone-in chicken breasts into a golden, juicy delight. This method is popular for its ease of preparation and the tender, succulent meat that results from baking with herbs and olive oil. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

History of the Baked Split Chicken Breast

The origins of baked chicken dishes like this one can be traced back to ancient times when roasting or baking meat over an open flame was one of the primary cooking methods. Chicken, being one of the most common poultry choices, has long been a staple in many cultures' diets. Over time, various regional influences shaped how chicken was prepared, leading to the use of herbs, spices, and different cooking techniques. The modern baked chicken breast recipe likely evolved from the desire for a healthier, quicker alternative to traditional roasting, emphasizing a simple yet flavorful approach to cooking.

Regional Variations of the Recipe

In the United States, baked split chicken breasts are especially popular due to their versatility. While the basic recipe of garlic, rosemary, and olive oil is a standard, regional variations often occur based on available local herbs and spices. In the Mediterranean, for example, you may find variations that include lemon zest, olives, or oregano. In the South, the recipe might incorporate a touch of paprika or even a dash of cayenne pepper for added heat. This adaptability is one of the reasons why baked chicken breasts remain a favorite across the country.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While there are many ways to prepare chicken, the baked split chicken breast stands out for its use of bone-in breasts with skin, which ensures a moist and flavorful result. Unlike boneless, skinless chicken breast recipes, this dish takes advantage of the chicken's natural juices, keeping the meat tender while the skin crisps up during baking. This recipe also requires minimal preparationjust rub the chicken with olive oil and spices, and bake. Unlike roasted whole chickens or fried chicken, this dish requires less active cooking time, making it perfect for a hands-off, easy meal.

Where Baked Split Chicken Breast is Typically Served

Baked split chicken breast is a popular dinner option and is often served in family meals, casual gatherings, and even dinner parties. Its simple yet elegant presentation makes it a versatile dish suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. This dish is often found in American households, particularly in regions where chicken is a staple, but its popularity has also spread internationally thanks to its delicious flavor and ease of preparation.

Interesting Facts About Baked Split Chicken Breast

The skin-on, bone-in chicken breasts retain more moisture during cooking, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful dish than boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein, and when baked instead of fried, they provide a healthier option for those looking to reduce calorie intake.
This recipe is highly customizable. You can experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme, oregano, or paprika, to create your own signature flavor.
Historically, chicken was often cooked on a spit or roasted over an open fire, a technique that continues to influence how we bake and roast chicken today.
While the recipe calls for a 45-60 minute cooking time, the key to success is ensuring that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F (75C) for food safety and optimal taste.

FAQ about Baked Split Chicken Breast Recipe

Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts, but they will cook faster. Check internal temperature early, aiming for 165°F (75°C), and reduce baking time by 10–15 minutes to prevent dryness.

Allow chicken to cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. You can also wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap for short-term storage.

Yes, freeze fully cooled chicken breasts for up to 3 months. Wrap each breast in grease-proof paper, then place them in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Marinating in the refrigerator for at least 45 minutes helps the flavors penetrate the meat and improves tenderness. You can marinate longer, up to 3 hours, for more intense flavor.

Yes, you can prep the chicken with seasonings and refrigerate it until ready to bake. For best results, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and bake within 24 hours.

Yes, letting the chicken rest for 10–15 minutes after baking helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.

Absolutely. Rosemary and basil are recommended, but thyme, oregano, or a pre-made poultry seasoning blend can be used. Adjust quantities to taste.

Yes, a convection oven works well. Reduce the temperature by 25°F (about 15°C) and check for doneness with an instant-read thermometer.

Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the meat. Slight pinkness near the bone can occur in large pieces, but if the thermometer reads 165°F, the chicken is safe to eat.

Yes, you can use the pan juices to make a simple gravy. Combine with butter, flour, broth, and seasonings, then simmer and whisk until thickened.

Comments

Barbara Walker

07/31/2024 05:55:24 AM

We typically enjoy a meal like this about once every ten days, usually using Trader Joe's kosher chicken. What set this one apart was the addition of garlic and herbs, as I usually stick to just salt, pepper, and lemon olive oil. The new savory style was a pleasant change that we really enjoyed. Overall, it was very good and we loved it! Thank you!

Kelly Hernandez

04/19/2025 10:01:45 AM

I usually don't purchase bone-in chicken breasts due to paying for the weight of the bones, but my husband surprised me with these from a sale. There were 4 large organic breast halves, and I knew I had to create something special. These breasts turned out incredibly juicy. I made a few tweaks to the recipe - I scored each breast twice, massaged with olive oil, then seasoned with my homemade SPG blend (salt, pepper, garlic), and finally sprinkled with rosemary and basil. I let them marinate in the refrigerator for 3 hours before cooking. I covered the pan with foil and baked for 30 minutes, then uncovered for another 30 minutes. The result was perfection. I served it with fresh mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables. It was a hit with everyone at the table who enjoyed a delicious meal and left with satisfied bellies.

Rachel Brown

09/11/2022 07:19:20 PM

I absolutely love this recipe and it has become a staple in my weekly meal plan. The first time I made Prospective PhD's chicken breasts, I followed the instructions exactly. For the second time, I decided to customize it to suit my family's taste preferences. I increased the amount of garlic and salt, opting for Celtic Sea Salt for its health benefits. I also added crushed oregano and thyme as suggested by PhD. To enhance the flavor, I started by seasoning both sides of the breasts with fresh lemon slices and placing the rinds in the baking dish. Served alongside steamed broccoli, garlic butter rice, and whole cranberry sauce, this meal is now a family favorite.

Rachel Green

01/09/2025 09:00:36 PM

The dish was extremely bland. Additionally, I recommend cooking it for 60 minutes instead of 45 as the meat closer to the bone had a slightly gamey flavor and required more time. My apologies.

Ruth Gomez

05/15/2023 08:51:26 AM

Very delightful and juicy. I prepared a larger amount of herb mixture, included thyme, and generously rubbed it under the skin. Coating the skin with oil, salt, pepper, and herbs resulted in a fantastic crispiness without needing the broiler. After prepping the chicken, I refrigerated it for around 5 hours before baking. Definitely a recipe I will make again.

Kimberly Mitchell

03/28/2024 05:16:41 PM

I prepared this dish for dinner tonight using the convection roast setting at 350°F and monitored the temperature with a thermometer probe until it reached 165°F. I noticed there was significant carryover heat, so next time I'll remove the dish at around 155-158°F. The chicken turned out delicious and tender with plenty of juices in the pan. I might try basting it once or twice next time since we're not big fans of crispy skin. My husband, a devoted roast chicken enthusiast, wholeheartedly approved with a big thumbs-up!

Ryan Carter

06/27/2024 08:02:31 AM

I have tried this chicken recipe multiple times, and it turns out perfectly each time. I bake it for 45 minutes, then remove it from the oven and tent it with foil for 15 minutes. I also make sure to let the chicken come to room temperature for one hour before cooking to ensure even cooking. I have stopped baking cold meat altogether. This recipe is a keeper. Thank you!

Dennis Wilson

05/12/2023 01:42:56 AM

I absolutely adored it.

Kimberly Hall

08/24/2024 06:03:19 PM

I followed the instructions and cooked the chicken in the oven for 45 minutes. It turned out perfectly - juicy, tender, and cooked all the way through.

Kelly Nelson

12/25/2022 09:14:33 AM

This dish was absolutely delicious! It was simple to prepare and hands down the most flavorful chicken breast I have ever had. So yummy!

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