This Baked Split Chicken Breast is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. It’s simple to prepare with a few pantry staples, making it an excellent go-to for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
By using bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts, you get maximum juiciness and flavor while achieving perfectly crispy skin. Whether paired with steamed veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients, big flavor – A classic seasoning blend that enhances the natural taste of the chicken.
Crispy skin & tender meat – Baking at the right temperature ensures perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Great for meal prep – Make extra for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week.
Gluten-free, low-carb, and high-protein – A healthy and nutritious meal option.What Does This Chicken Taste Like?
This oven-baked split chicken breast has a rich, roasted flavor with hints of garlic, rosemary, and basil. The skin crisps up beautifully, locking in moisture, while the meat stays tender and juicy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 large bone-in, skin-on chicken breast halves
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 basilKitchen Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Baking dish or sheet pan
Measuring spoons
Instant-read thermometer
How to Make Baked Split Chicken Breast
- Prep the Chicken In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and minced garlic.
Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly.
Sprinkle salt, black pepper, rosemary, and basil over the chicken. - Let It Marinate (Optional but Recommended) Cover the chicken and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes for deeper flavor.
If short on time, you can skip the marinating step and bake immediately. - Bake to Perfection Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the chicken breasts skin-side up in a large baking dish.
Bake for 45–60 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (75°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the chicken. - Serve & Enjoy! Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh side salad.
What to Serve with Baked Chicken
This baked chicken breast pairs well with:
Garlic Butter Mashed Potatoes – A creamy, flavorful side.
Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini.
Steamed Rice or Quinoa – For a light, wholesome meal.
Caesar Salad – A crisp, fresh contrast to the juicy chicken.Pro Tips for the Best Baked Chicken
Use an instant-read thermometer – This ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked without drying out.
Let the chicken rest – Resting for 5–10 minutes helps lock in the juices.
Don’t skip the skin – The skin helps keep the meat moist and adds delicious crispiness.
Marinate longer for deeper flavor – If you have time, let the chicken marinate overnight.How to Store & Reheat
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap cooked chicken in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or until heated through.Variations & Customizations
Spicy Version – Add ½ teaspoon paprika and a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Lemon Herb Chicken – Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before baking.
Honey Garlic Chicken – Brush the chicken with a mix of honey, garlic, and soy sauce for a sweet-savory twist.
Italian-Style Chicken – Add oregano, thyme, and Parmesan cheese for a Mediterranean touch.Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts?
Yes! But reduce the cooking time to 25–30 minutes at 375°F to prevent drying out.
Can I bake this at 400°F instead?
Yes! Baking at 400°F will cook the chicken faster (around 40–50 minutes), but watch to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
How do I get the skin extra crispy?
Bake at 400°F for the last 10 minutes to crisp up the skin.
Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for an even crispier finish.What if I don’t have dried rosemary or basil?
You can substitute with thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Split Chicken Breast is an easy, flavorful, and foolproof recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special occasions. With crispy skin, juicy meat, and simple seasonings, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again!
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