baked chicken breast bone in
Standing in the kitchen, the smell of baked chicken reminded me of my childhood. My mom’s baked chicken breasts were famous for being juicy and full of flavor. Now, as a busy parent, I’ve found the magic of this simple dish again. I’m eager to share how you can make it just as delicious at home.
Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts are perfect for a memorable meal. They’re cheaper than boneless ones and add a rich flavor and texture. Let’s explore how to make your baked chicken breasts crispy on the outside and juicy inside. Your family will love it so much, they’ll ask for more.
Table of Contents
What Are Bone-In Skin-On Chicken Breasts?
A Flavorful and Affordable Cut
Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts are a favorite among many. They offer a great mix of taste and texture. The meat stays moist and gets extra flavor from the bone and skin.
These breasts are also budget-friendly. They taste better and are juicier than boneless, skinless ones. The bone ensures even heat, and the skin keeps the meat moist.
| Cut | Average Cooking Time | Common Spices | Recommended Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Breasts | 35 minutes | Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Paprika, Dried Thyme | 165°F |
Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts are perfect for any meal. They’re great for a quick dinner or a big event. They’re tasty and won’t break the bank.
Where to Find Bone-In Skin-On Chicken Breasts
Looking for bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts? You might need to search a bit harder than for boneless, skinless ones. These cuts are less common in stores now, thanks to the rise of boneless, skinless breasts. But, they’re still out there, and with some effort, you can find them for their rich taste and texture.
For the best chance of finding these breasts, check out your local butcher or specialty meat market. These places usually have a wider variety of chicken cuts, including the bone-in, skin-on type. Just ask the butcher if they have them or can get them for you.
If you can’t find them in stores, consider buying a whole chicken and cutting the breasts yourself. This can save you money since whole chickens are often cheaper than pre-cut breasts.
| Where to Find Bone-In Skin-On Chicken Breasts | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Local Butcher or Specialty Meat Market | – Wider selection of chicken cuts – Knowledgeable staff can assist with sourcing | – May be more expensive than grocery stores |
| Grocery Stores | – Convenient location – Potential for lower prices | – Less common than boneless, skinless options |
| Cutting a Whole Chicken | – Cost-effective – Allows for more control over cuts | – Requires time and effort to prepare |
By trying these options, you can up your chances of getting the bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts you want. Enjoy their special flavor and texture in your cooking.
Tips for Cooking baked chicken breast bone in
To get the perfect baked chicken breast, follow a few key steps. First, brine the chicken in salt water for 30-60 minutes. This makes the meat juicy and full of flavor.
Next, brush the chicken with oil or melted butter. This helps the skin get crispy and golden. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for extra taste.
Brining, Brushing with Oil, and Seasoning
- Brine the chicken breasts in a salt water solution for 30-60 minutes to enhance moisture and tenderness.
- Brush the chicken with a light coating of oil or melted butter to promote crispy skin.
- Season the chicken generously with a blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
These tips will help you make delicious, juicy bone-in chicken breasts. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should be 165°F. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for the best tenderness.
| Chicken Breast Size | Approximate Bake Time |
|---|---|
| 5-6 oz | 13-16 minutes |
| 8 oz | 16-19 minutes |
| 11-12 oz | 22-26 minutes |
Remember, the chicken must reach 165°F for safety. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving for juiciness.
The Oven-Roasting Method
To get oven-roasted bone-in chicken breasts just right, use the high-heat oven method. Roast the chicken at about 400°F. This heat makes the skin crispy and golden while keeping the meat juicy.
The cooking time for oven-roasted bone-in chicken breasts varies. It’s usually 25-30 minutes or until it hits 165°F with a thermometer. After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices spread evenly.
| Bone-In Chicken Breasts | Baking Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1.25 pounds | 400°F | 60 minutes |
| 3 large split | 375°F | 45-60 minutes |
Using the high-heat oven method, you’ll get oven-roasted bone-in chicken breasts with crispy skin and juicy meat. Serve it with your favorite sides for a tasty meal.
“The secret to perfectly cooked oven-roasted bone-in chicken breasts is all in the temperature and cooking time.”
baked chicken breast bone in: A Versatile Ingredient
Baked bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts are great for many dishes. You can shred the meat for salads, soups, and casseroles. Or, serve the chicken breasts whole as the main dish.
The crispy skin and juicy meat of baked bone-in chicken breasts go well with many flavors. They’re perfect for both simple and creative meals. These chicken breasts are a valuable addition to any kitchen.
Meal Ideas with Baked Bone-In Chicken Breasts
- Shred the meat and add it to hearty soups, stews, or chilis.
- Use the chicken in flavorful salads, like a Caesar or Cobb salad.
- Slice the breasts and serve them over a bed of roasted vegetables.
- Incorporate the chicken into comforting casseroles or pot pies.
- Enjoy the chicken breasts as the main protein for a classic chicken dinner, paired with your favorite sides.
Baked bone-in chicken breast is a must-have for home cooks. It’s perfect for simple meals or more elaborate dishes. This cut of chicken is the base for many delicious recipes.
| Nutritional Information (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 588 |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Protein | 39g |
| Fat | 42g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Sodium | 1451mg |
“Baked bone-in chicken breasts are a staple in my kitchen. They’re so versatile and always turn out juicy and flavorful.”
Crispy Skin, Juicy Meat: Achieving Perfection
To get crispy skin and juicy meat, a two-step process is essential. First, sear the chicken in a hot skillet. This helps render fat and starts browning. Then, move the chicken to the oven to finish cooking.
In the oven, the high heat crisps the skin. The bone keeps the meat moist and flavorful. This combination makes a roast chicken dinner that will wow everyone.
Searing and Roasting for Maximum Flavor
Begin by drying the chicken breasts with paper towels and seasoning them with salt and pepper. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and let it shimmer.
Place the chicken breasts skin-side down in the skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes.
After searing, put the skillet in a preheated 375°F oven. Roast the chicken for 25-30 minutes, until it reaches 165°F. The oven’s heat will crisp the skin further while keeping the meat juicy.
When the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to spread evenly, making each bite moist and tasty. Serve your oven-roasted, bone-in chicken breasts with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.
Meal Prep and Leftovers
Baked bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts are great for meal prep. After cooking, remove the meat from the bone and store it in an airtight container. This way, you can use the cooked chicken in salads, sandwiches, soups, and casseroles for up to 4 days.
Chicken breast fillets have about 165 calories, 31 grams of protein, and 3.5 grams of fat. They are lean and nutritious. Using leftover chicken in your meal prep saves time and effort during the week.
It’s crucial to store cooked chicken correctly. It can stay in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for 2-6 months. Always label the containers with the cooking date.
When reheating, add a teaspoon of water to the chicken. This helps keep it moist and prevents it from drying out. This simple trick makes a big difference in the taste and texture of your meal.
Baked bone-in chicken breasts are versatile and can be used in many dishes. From salads and sandwiches to soups and casseroles, the options are endless. Meal prepping with this affordable and flavorful protein saves time and money, while providing delicious and nutritious meals.
Mouthwatering Side Dishes
To make your baked bone-in, skin-on chicken breast dinner complete, try pairing it with tasty side dishes. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus add a nice contrast. Starchy sides like roasted potatoes, rice, or pasta soak up the chicken’s juices. Choose sides that enhance the savory, crispy skin and juicy meat of the chicken.
Complementary Flavors and Textures
A balanced meal needs side dishes that taste good and offer different flavors and textures. For instance, serve your baked chicken with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots. They add a crunchy, slightly sweet touch to the savory chicken. Or, a rice or potato side dish can be a starchy, comforting base for the chicken’s juices.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots
- Garlic-herb roasted potatoes
- Steamed or sautéed green beans
- Herbed rice pilaf
- Creamy mashed potatoes
By picking side dishes that match the baked chicken, you can make a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Your family and friends will love it.
“The key to a great meal is finding the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With baked chicken breasts as the star, the right side dishes can elevate the entire experience.”
baked chicken breast bone in: A Budget-Friendly Protein
Choosing bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts is a smart money move. They are often less expensive than boneless, skinless breasts, costing about $2 per pound. By watching for sales, you can enjoy tender, juicy baked chicken without spending a lot.
Bone-in chicken breasts are also very versatile. They fit well in many dishes, from stews and casseroles to simple roasts. This makes them a great choice for saving money without losing flavor or quality.
Buying whole chickens and cutting the breasts yourself can save even more money. This approach not only gives you affordable protein but also helps reduce food waste. You get to use the whole bird, making your money go further.
| Ingredient | Cost |
|---|---|
| 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (2 lbs) | $5.49 |
| 24 oz. baby potatoes | $2.99 |
| 2 large carrots | $0.31 |
| 1 red onion | $0.80 |
| 4 cloves of garlic | $0.32 |
| 1/4 cup olive oil | $0.48 |
| Herb Seasonings (basil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper) | $0.50 |
| Total Cost | $9.69 |
Baked chicken breasts with bone-in are a great way to feed your family a tasty, nutritious meal for under $10. By shopping smart, buying in bulk, and using the whole bird, you can enjoy delicious chicken without spending too much.
Conclusion
Baked bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts are a great choice for home cooks. They offer flavorful meat, crispy skin, and are affordable. This makes them perfect for many recipes.
By following the tips in this article, you can make juicy, perfectly cooked chicken. It will impress your family and friends.
We’ve covered the key steps for baking bone-in chicken breasts. You can use them for meal prep or a main dish. Pairing them with side dishes makes for a complete meal.
Keep trying new herbs, spices, and cooking methods. This will help you find the best flavor for your chicken. With practice, you’ll master this versatile and affordable protein. Enjoy your delicious baked bone-in chicken breasts and the many meals they can create.