Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! Baking a delicious half chicken can be a game-changer for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Not only is it impressive, but it’s also surprisingly simple to make. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering baking half chicken recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic flavors like garlic herb and lemon pepper to more adventurous options like spicy Cajun and tandoori-style, there’s something for everyone on this list. Plus, many of these recipes can be ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to spare.
So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and give one (or two, or three…) of these tasty half chicken recipes a try tonight!
Garlic Herb Roasted Half Chicken
A classic roasted chicken recipe gets a boost of flavor with the addition of garlic and herbs. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole half-chicken (about 2 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the garlic-herb mixture all over the chicken.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lemon Pepper Baked Half Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this refreshing twist on a classic recipe. A flavorful blend of lemon zest, black pepper, and herbs creates a moist and aromatic dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 half chicken (about 2 lbs)
– 2 lemons, zested
– 2 tbsp black pepper
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, black pepper, thyme, garlic powder, and paprika.
4. Brush the olive oil on the chicken, then sprinkle the lemon-pepper mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Half Chicken
Treat your taste buds to a sweet and tangy combination with this Honey Mustard Glazed Half Chicken recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 half chicken (2-3 lbs)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and 1 tbsp of the olive oil until smooth.
3. Season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, skin side up.
5. Brush the honey-mustard glaze evenly over the chicken, making sure to coat all surfaces.
6. Drizzle the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil over the glaze.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Cajun Baked Half Chicken
Add a kick of spice to your meal with this flavorful and aromatic Spicy Cajun Baked Half Chicken recipe. Marinated in a blend of Cajun spices, lemon juice, and hot sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken, cut in half
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken halves, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, breast side up.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Butter Half Chicken
Elevate your meal with this flavorful half chicken recipe infused with the aromas of rosemary and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole half-chicken (2 lbs)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Place the half-chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic-rosemary butter evenly over the chicken breast and thighs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through, basting with pan juices every 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Serves: 2-4 people
BBQ Baked Half Chicken with Smoked Paprika
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouth-watering BBQ baked half chicken, elevated by the deep, smoky flavor of smoked paprika. This easy-to-make recipe yields tender, juicy meat with a satisfying crunch from the crispy skin.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs bone-in, skin-on half chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Brush with BBQ sauce and continue baking for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 50-55 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Baked Half Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and crispy Parmesan crusted baked half chicken recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole half-chicken (thighs and legs)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the Parmesan mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Glazed Half Chicken with Thyme
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory maple glazed half chicken, infused with the warmth of thyme. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 half chicken (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the glaze all over the chicken.
5. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Greek-Style Baked Half Chicken with Olives
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional baked chicken, this recipe combines the rich flavors of Greece with the convenience of a half-chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) bone-in, skin-on chicken breast or thigh, cut in half
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken half, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place sliced olives on top of the chicken, followed by crumbled feta cheese.
5. Sprinkle dried oregano evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Teriyaki Baked Half Chicken with Sesame Seeds
This recipe combines the classic flavors of teriyaki sauce and toasted sesame seeds to create a deliciously glazed half chicken that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a mouthwatering meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 half chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
4. Place the chicken in a baking dish and brush the teriyaki glaze all over the chicken, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top of the chicken.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Baked Half Chicken with Herbs
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and moist garlic butter baked half chicken, infused with the aroma of fresh herbs. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole half chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Rub the garlic butter mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Half Chicken with Rosemary
A classic combination of flavors comes together in this simple yet impressive dish, perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 half chicken (2-3 lbs), skin removed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the half chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the rosemary mixture all over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through.
5. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the balsamic glaze all over the chicken to create a sticky glaze.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Note: To make balsamic glaze, reduce 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar on low heat until thickened and syrupy. Let cool before using.
Crispy Skin Baked Half Chicken with Lemon
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe that yields a juicy, flavorful half chicken with a crispy skin that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), cut in half
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the chicken halves in a roasting pan, skin side up. Brush the lemon mixture evenly over both chickens.
4. Sprinkle chopped rosemary leaves and Parmesan cheese over the skin of each half.
5. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Baked Half Chicken
This recipe yields a mouth-watering, smoky half chicken with a chipotle kick. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole boneless half chicken
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with minced chipotle peppers.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herb-Roasted Half Chicken with Potatoes
A flavorful and aromatic dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole half chicken (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary leaves, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up.
6. Toss the potato wedges with a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. Spread the potatoes around the chicken in the roasting pan.
8. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Orange Ginger Glazed Half Chicken
Elevate your poultry game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course. The sweet and spicy glaze will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1 half chicken (about 2 lbs)
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze all over the chicken, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pesto Baked Half Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes
Pesto Baked Half Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes: A flavorful and aromatic main course that combines the richness of chicken with the brightness of cherry tomatoes and the creaminess of pesto.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless, skinless half chicken breast
– 2 tbsp pesto
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together pesto, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the pesto mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Arrange cherry tomatoes around the chicken, leaving a little space between each tomato.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Lemon Baked Half Chicken with Asparagus
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and moist chicken dish, perfectly paired with a side of tender asparagus. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal prep time.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole half chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed
– 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Rub the garlic-lemon mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
6. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
8. Serve the chicken with roasted asparagus and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tandoori-Style Baked Half Chicken
Experience the rich flavors of Indian cuisine with this simple recipe that yields a mouthwatering, tender, and aromatic baked half chicken. Marinate the chicken in a blend of yogurt, spices, and herbs, then bake it to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole half chicken (2-3 lbs)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp coriander powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garam masala powder, cumin, coriander powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add salt to taste.
3. Add the half chicken to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, breast side up. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Brown Sugar Glazed Half Chicken with Cinnamon
Transform your half chicken into a sweet and savory masterpiece with this easy-to-make recipe. The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and citrus creates a delightful flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) bone-in, skin-on half chicken
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, honey, orange juice, and chicken broth until well combined.
3. Place the half chicken in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the chicken for 45-50 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these mouthwatering half chicken recipes! From classic flavors like garlic herb and lemon pepper to international twists like tandoori-style and pesto-inspired dishes, there’s something for everyone. Discover how easy it is to achieve crispy skin and juicy meat with simple ingredients and clever techniques. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting baked dish or a flavorful roasted recipe, these 20 half chicken recipes will become your new go-to favorites.
