Cooking bone-in chicken breast can bring out rich flavors and textures that you might not get with boneless cuts. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be roasted, grilled, or slow-cooked, making it a great choice for various cuisines and cooking styles. Discovering new and exciting recipes to make the most of bone-in chicken ensures your meals are flavorful and satisfying.
When you cook with bone-in chicken breasts, you’re not just using a protein source, but also utilizing a component that can enhance the taste of your dishes. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight dinners or impressive weekend meals, there are numerous options to explore. Dive into these 15 recipes and transform your standard chicken dinner into something special.
1) Garlic Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
To make Garlic Lemon Herb Chicken Breast, start by preparing your marinade. Combine lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and mixed herbs in a bowl. Whisk until everything is well blended.
Place the bone-in chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to develop.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the baking dish, skin side up. Pour any remaining marinade over the top of the chicken.
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This lets the juices redistribute for a juicier result. Serve your Garlic Lemon Herb Chicken Breast with your favorite sides for a delicious meal.
2) Honey Mustard Baked Chicken
Honey Mustard Baked Chicken is a tasty and easy dish. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease your baking dish lightly.
In a small bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, and whole grain mustard. Add a bit of salt, pepper, and olive oil for extra flavor. You can also include garlic or lemon juice if you like.
Place the chicken breasts in the greased dish. Pour the honey mustard mixture over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well-coated with the sauce.
If you want more flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for an hour or overnight. This helps the sauce soak into the meat.
Bake the chicken for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, you might want to turn the chicken over and brush on more sauce. This ensures both sides are equally delicious.
Check that the chicken is cooked through before serving. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Enjoy your Honey Mustard Baked Chicken with a side of vegetables or rice for a perfect meal.
3) Spicy Cajun Chicken
Spicy Cajun Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines the heat of Cajun seasoning with tender, juicy chicken.
To make Spicy Cajun Chicken, first, rub the chicken breasts with a mix of Cajun spices. This usually includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano.
Next, heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on each side for about 5-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This will give the chicken a nice golden color and ensure it’s fully cooked.
For added flavor, consider making a garlic lemon butter sauce to serve with the chicken. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic, add white wine and lemon juice, then fold in some butter. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce over it.
You can also pair Spicy Cajun Chicken with rice and vegetables. Add uncooked rice and chicken broth to the skillet, then reduce the heat and let it cook until the rice is tender. This makes a complete meal in just one pan.
Grilling is another option. Marinate the chicken in a Cajun spice mix for at least an hour, then grill it until it reaches 165°F internally. This gives the chicken a smoky flavor while keeping it moist and spicy.
Serve your Spicy Cajun Chicken with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced and delicious meal.
4) Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken
Greek yogurt marinated chicken is a flavorful and tender dish. The yogurt adds creaminess and helps the chicken absorb all the spices.
Start by mixing Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, and fresh ginger in a bowl. Add ground cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade. Make sure each piece is coated well. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For best results, marinate it for 1-2 hours.
When ready, take the chicken out of the fridge 30 minutes before cooking. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the chicken on a baking dish and place it in the oven.
Bake the chicken for about 25-35 minutes, or until fully cooked. The yogurt marinade will help keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
Serve your Greek yogurt marinated chicken with rice, vegetables, or salad. Enjoy the creamy, tangy flavors combined with the juicy chicken.
5) BBQ Grilled Bone-In Chicken Breast
To make BBQ grilled bone-in chicken breasts, start by brining the chicken. Mix water, salt, and sugar to create the brine. Submerge the chicken breasts in the brine for at least an hour.
Once brined, pat the chicken dry. Apply a dry rub to add flavor. You can use store-bought seasoning or make your own with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar.
Preheat your grill to 400°F. Place the chicken breasts on the grill, ensuring they are spaced apart.
Grill the chicken, flipping occasionally to get even grill marks. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check.
Rest the chicken for a few minutes before serving. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
6) Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
For a fresh and tasty twist, try Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast. Start by preheating your oven to 390ºF.
Carefully slice each chicken breast from the side, creating a deep pocket. Inside each pocket, place shredded mozzarella, dried tomatoes, and a fresh basil leaf.
Secure the pocket with toothpicks to keep the filling from falling out during cooking. Heat a small amount of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken breasts for about 4 minutes on each side until they are golden. Once seared, add a balsamic glaze to the pan to coat the chicken, enhancing its flavor.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve your Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast with a drizzle of the remaining balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
7) Creamy Mushroom Chicken
Creamy Mushroom Chicken is a simple yet delicious dish. Start by seasoning your bone-in chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add more butter and increase the heat. Cook sliced mushrooms until golden brown. Add minced garlic and cook for a few seconds. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to mix well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Return the chicken to the skillet, making sure it’s covered in the creamy mushroom sauce. Simmer for a minute to warm the chicken if needed. Serve it hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if you like. This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes.
8) Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Balsamic glazed chicken is both delicious and easy to make. Start by combining balsamic vinegar and brown sugar in a saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until it thickens.
While the glaze is cooling, you can prepare the chicken. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any herbs you like, such as rosemary or thyme. Heat a skillet with some olive oil over medium heat. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for a few minutes on each side until browned.
Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to a baking dish. Pour the balsamic glaze over the chicken, making sure it is well-coated. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (204°C) for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Baste occasionally with extra glaze for added flavor.
If you prefer to grill your chicken, you can do that too. Just remember to turn the chicken every 5-6 minutes until it’s done. This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted based on your cooking method and preference.
9) Buffalo Chicken Breast
Buffalo Chicken Breast is a delicious and spicy dish that combines tender chicken with the bold flavors of Buffalo sauce.
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
In a separate bowl, heat Buffalo sauce and butter together. Pour this mixture over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated. Marinate for 30 minutes to let the flavors seep in.
Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes. During baking, brush more sauce on the chicken to keep it moist and flavorful.
For a tangy finish, sprinkle some crumbled blue cheese on top before serving. This adds a cool, creamy element that balances the spicy Buffalo sauce.
Buffalo Chicken Breast pairs well with celery sticks and ranch dressing for a classic touch.
This dish is perfect for a game day or a casual dinner that packs a punch.
10) Herb Roasted Chicken
To make herb roasted chicken, start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees F. This temperature ensures your chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Prepare your herbs by chopping fresh ones like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Mix these chopped herbs with garlic, salt, and pepper.
Rub this mixture under the skin, inside the cavity, and all over the outside of the chicken. This helps infuse the flavor into every part of the meat.
Set the chicken on a rack in a roasting pan and place it in the oven. Cooking the chicken on a rack prevents it from sitting in its juices and helps the skin get crispy.
Bake for about 60-75 minutes, or until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This lets the juices settle back into the meat.
Serve your herb roasted chicken with the pan juices drizzled over the top for added flavor. This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
11) Pesto Chicken
Pesto chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish. Start with bone-in chicken breasts. They stay juicy and tender during cooking.
To bake, preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Spread pesto sauce over each chicken breast. For a homemade touch, mix basil, olive oil, pine nuts, and garlic in a food processor to make your own pesto.
Place the chicken on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F. You can add cherry tomatoes to the baking sheet for extra flavor.
If you prefer grilling, cook the chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side. Use a grill basket for your tomatoes.
Serve the pesto chicken hot, possibly with a side of pasta or fresh salad. The combination of rich pesto and tender chicken will make this a favorite.
12) Lemon Pepper Chicken
Lemon Pepper Chicken is a flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that guarantees a tasty meal. You start by preheating your oven to 425°F.
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Drizzle them with lemon juice and rub with olive oil or melted butter.
Next, mix together lemon pepper seasoning, some salt, and optional spices like basil or oregano. Rub this mixture over all sides of the chicken.
Lay the seasoned chicken in a baking dish. If you like, you can add lemon slices on top for extra flavor.
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 25-35 minutes. Cook until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve hot with your choice of sides. Lemon Pepper Chicken pairs well with vegetables, rice, or potatoes.
13) Southwestern Chicken Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Begin by seasoning the bone-in chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. This basic seasoning prepares the meat for the flavorful toppings.
In a medium bowl, mix together enchilada sauce, drained tomatoes, and sour cream. This creates a rich and tangy sauce that will coat the chicken perfectly.
Lay the chicken breasts flat in an 8×11-inch baking dish. Pour the enchilada sauce mixture evenly over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well-coated for maximum flavor.
Next, combine corn, black beans, green chiles, and red bell peppers in a separate bowl. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
Spread this vegetable mixture over the coated chicken breasts. The combination of vegetables adds freshness and texture to the baked dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. Check the chicken for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked.
For a finishing touch, sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve your Southwestern Chicken Bake with a garnish of fresh cilantro for added color and flavor.
14) Teriyaki Chicken
Teriyaki Chicken is a flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with bone-in chicken breasts. You start by preparing a teriyaki sauce using soy sauce, water, rice vinegar, ginger, sugar, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic. Heat these ingredients in a saucepan until the sauce thickens.
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a baking dish and place the chicken breasts in a single layer. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well-coated.
Bake the chicken for 45-60 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is fully cooked. Halfway through, you might want to baste the chicken with the sauce to keep it moist and flavorful.
Serve your baked Teriyaki Chicken with rice and steamed vegetables. This enhances the overall meal experience and complements the savory taste of the chicken. Enjoy a delicious, homemade dish that’s sure to please the whole family.
15) Apricot Glazed Chicken
Apricot Glazed Chicken is an easy and flavorful dish. You only need a few simple ingredients. Start with bone-in chicken breasts. Pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
To make the glaze, combine apricot preserves, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic in a bowl. You can also add a touch of honey for extra sweetness. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth.
Heat oil in a large oven-safe pan or cast iron skillet. Brown the chicken breasts on both sides. This step seals in the juices and adds flavor.
Once browned, pour the apricot glaze over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well coated. Transfer the pan to a preheated oven set at 350°F.
Bake the chicken for about 45-60 minutes. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The glaze will become thick and sticky.
Serve the Apricot Glazed Chicken hot. It pairs well with rice or steamed vegetables. This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Enjoy the sweet and savory flavors in every bite.
Nutritional Value of Bone-In Chicken Breast
Bone-in chicken breast is not only flavorful but also packed with various nutrients that are beneficial for your health. This section highlights the caloric content and the protein and macronutrients found in bone-in chicken breast.
Caloric Content
Bone-in chicken breast is a moderate calorie food, making it a good choice for those monitoring their calorie intake. A typical 3.5-ounce portion contains around 165 calories. This includes both calories from fat and protein.
It’s important to note that cooking methods can affect calories. For example, frying adds more calories compared to grilling or baking. Removing the skin also reduces calorie content, as the skin is higher in fat. Choosing bone-in chicken breasts can help you feel full longer due to their protein content.
Protein and Macronutrients
Bone-in chicken breast is an excellent source of high-quality protein. A 3.5-ounce serving provides about 31 grams of protein. This is essential for muscle growth and repair. Protein also supports various bodily functions, including enzyme and hormone production.
In addition to protein, bone-in chicken breasts contain essential macronutrients. They offer about 3.6 grams of fat per serving, with much of this being unsaturated fat, which is healthier for your heart. Carbohydrates are minimal in chicken, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
Incorporating bone-in chicken breast into your meals is an excellent way to meet your nutritional needs while enjoying a delicious and versatile protein source.
Cooking Techniques
Cooking bone-in chicken breasts can be done in various ways to ensure juicy and flavorful meat. Three popular techniques include baking, grilling, and slow cooking, each bringing out the best in your chicken with unique textures and tastes.
Baking
Baking is a simple method to cook bone-in chicken breasts. Preheat your oven to around 350°F. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs you prefer. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for 35-45 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
For crispy skin, broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat. This method is perfect for combining with veggies or potatoes on the same sheet for a complete meal.
Grilling
Grilling bone-in chicken breasts infuses them with smoky flavors. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Prepare a marinade or simply use olive oil with salt, pepper, and herbs. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down.
Cook each side for about 6-8 minutes, then move the chicken to indirect heat. Cover the grill and cook for another 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F. Let the chicken rest before slicing. Grilling enhances the chicken’s natural flavors, and is great for summer barbecues.
Slow Cooking
Slow cooking is ideal for hands-off, tender chicken. Prepare your bone-in chicken breasts with a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. Brown the chicken in a skillet before transferring it to the slow cooker. Add broth or water to keep the chicken moist.
Set the slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Slow cooking allows the flavors to blend and the chicken to become very tender. This method is excellent for meal prepping or for busy days when you want a ready-to-eat meal.
Flavor Pairings
When cooking bone-in chicken breasts, choosing the right herbs, spices, and sauces can elevate the dish. The following combinations of flavors are sure to maximize taste and complement the natural richness of the chicken.
Herbs and Spices
Using herbs and spices enhances the flavor of chicken. For a bright, zesty taste, mix lemon, garlic, and rosemary. These ingredients are great for those who enjoy refreshing and aromatic dishes.
If you prefer a bit of heat with a hint of sweetness, consider using ancho chili powder and honey. The sweet and spicy blend adds depth and richness to the meat.
For more earthy flavors, season the chicken with thyme, paprika, and oregano. These herbs and spices offer a robust and comforting taste that pairs well with roasted or grilled chicken.
Sauce Suggestions
Sauces can add moisture and additional flavors to bone-in chicken breasts. A creamy white wine sauce infused with onions, garlic, thyme, and mushrooms is perfect for a rich and savory meal.
For something tangier, try an apple cider glaze. This sauce, made from spiced apple cider, adds a sweet and acidic balance to the savory notes of the chicken.
If you enjoy bold flavors, a honey garlic sauce can be an excellent choice. Mix soy sauce, honey, and garlic for a delightful blend that works particularly well for grilling or baking.
These flavor pairings ensure your chicken breast dishes are anything but boring!
