Baked Split Chicken Breast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why I love this recipe—and I think you will too:

• Effortless Elegance: It’s a simple recipe, yet the results are impressive and feel fancy enough for any dinner.

• Minimal Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of cooking, this dish is quick and easy to make.

• Juicy and Tender: The bone-in chicken breasts cook perfectly, resulting in juicy, tender meat with a crispy, flavorful skin.

• Customizable: You can scale this recipe up for larger gatherings or switch up the seasonings to suit your tastes.

• Great for Leftovers: This dish is perfect for meal prepping or making extra to enjoy later.

Ingredients

For this simple and flavorful chicken recipe, you’ll need:

• 2 large bone-in chicken breast halves with skin

• ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil

• ½ teaspoon garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt

• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon dried rosemary

• ¼ teaspoon dried basil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, combine the olive oil and minced garlic. Rub the chicken breasts with this olive oil mixture, ensuring they’re coated evenly.

2. Season the Chicken

Sprinkle the seasoned chicken breasts with salt, pepper, rosemary, and basil.

3. Arrange in the Baking Dish

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a large baking dish, skin-side up.

4. Bake the Chicken

Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear. You can check the temperature with a meat thermometer. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on top.

5. Rest Before Serving

Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices, ensuring the chicken remains tender.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the baked chicken with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields 2 servings and takes about 10 minutes of prep time, with 45 minutes of cooking time. Total time: 55 minutes.

Variations

This recipe is simple and easy to customize:

• Herb Variations: Swap the rosemary and basil for thyme, oregano, or sage for a different flavor profile.

• Add a Zesty Twist: Brush the chicken with lemon juice or a little Dijon mustard before seasoning for a tangy kick.

• Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Fridge: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheat: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to retain its crispy texture, or microwave it for a quicker option.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 3 months. Let it cool before wrapping it tightly in foil or plastic wrap.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken breasts?

Yes! You can use boneless chicken breasts, but they may cook faster—check them at 25-30 minutes for doneness.

Do I have to refrigerate the chicken before baking?

While refrigerating helps the flavors meld together, it’s not necessary. You can bake the chicken right away if you’re short on time.

Can I use other oils besides olive oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or melted butter if you prefer.

Can I add vegetables to the baking dish?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or Brussels sprouts to the baking dish can make it a one-pan meal.

How can I ensure the chicken stays moist?

To keep the chicken moist, avoid overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check that it reaches 165°F internally and rest it before serving.

Conclusion

Baked Split Chicken Breast is a simple yet elegant meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken with a crispy, garlicky, herb-infused crust is both comforting and impressive. With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe proves that delicious meals don’t need to be complicated. Enjoy!