18 Delicious Baking Half Chicken Recipes for Every Occasion

Ready to transform your half chicken into a show-stopping meal? Whether you’re craving something quick for weeknight dinners, seasonal delights for your next gathering, or just some good old-fashioned comfort food, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our roundup of 18 Delicious Baking Half Chicken Recipes that promise to delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones. Let’s get baking!

Herb-Roasted Half Chicken with Garlic Butter

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of a herb-roasted half chicken, especially when it’s brushed with a rich garlic butter that seeps into every juicy bite.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 lbs)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pat the half chicken dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin.
2. In a small bowl, mix together 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tbsp rosemary, and 1 tbsp thyme until well combined.
3. Rub the chicken all over with 1 tbsp olive oil, then season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
4. Gently loosen the skin over the breast and thighs, then spread half of the garlic butter underneath the skin. Rub the remaining butter over the outside of the chicken.
5. Place the chicken on a rack in a roasting pan, skin side up. Roast for 45-50 minutes, until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful.

The magic of this dish lies in the garlic butter under the skin, which keeps the meat incredibly tender while the herbs infuse it with aromatic flavors.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Lemon Pepper Baked Half Chicken

This Lemon Pepper Baked Half Chicken is a zesty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner, bringing a bright twist to your weeknight meals.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the half chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken.
3. Sprinkle the lemon pepper seasoning, salt, and garlic powder evenly over the chicken, ensuring full coverage.
4. Place the lemon slices under the chicken skin and around the baking sheet for extra flavor.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is crispy and golden.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The lemon slices not only infuse the chicken with a vibrant citrus flavor but also keep it wonderfully moist. It’s a simple trick that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Spicy Cajun Baked Half Chicken

Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with this Spicy Cajun Baked Half Chicken, a dish that packs a punch of flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the half chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the skin gets crispy.
3. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
5. Place the chicken skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is golden and crispy.
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

The magic of this recipe lies in the Cajun seasoning’s bold flavors melding perfectly with the crispy skin, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Tip: For an extra kick, serve with a side of creamy coleslaw to balance the heat.

Honey Mustard Glazed Baked Half Chicken

This Honey Mustard Glazed Baked Half Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a standout dish for any dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2-3 lbs)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup honey, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper until well combined.
3. Place the half chicken on the prepared baking sheet and brush the honey mustard mixture evenly over the chicken, making sure to coat both sides.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

The glaze caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a sticky, flavorful crust that’s irresistible. The combination of Dijon and whole grain mustard adds depth to the sweetness of the honey.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Garlic Parmesan Baked Half Chicken

Imagine pulling a golden, crispy half chicken out of the oven, its skin glistening with garlic parmesan goodness. This Garlic Parmesan Baked Half Chicken is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2-3 pounds)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons olive oil, 4 cloves minced garlic, 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika to create a paste.
3. Pat the half chicken dry with paper towels, then rub the garlic parmesan paste all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
4. Place the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

The magic of this dish lies in the crispy, cheesy crust that forms on the chicken, locking in moisture and flavor in every bite. It’s a perfect centerpiece for a dinner that feels gourmet without the fuss.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

BBQ Baked Half Chicken with Smoky Flavors

Nothing brings the family together like the smoky, savory aroma of BBQ baked chicken. This half chicken recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2-3 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Pat the half chicken dry with paper towels, then rub it all over with 2 tbsp olive oil.
3. In a small bowl, mix together 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.
4. Place the chicken skin-side up in the prepared baking dish and bake for 45 minutes.
5. Remove the chicken from the oven and brush it with 1/4 cup BBQ sauce. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. The smoky paprika and BBQ sauce create a caramelized crust that’s irresistibly crispy and flavorful.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce before brushing it on the chicken.

Rosemary and Thyme Baked Half Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of rosemary and thyme wafting through the kitchen, especially when it’s coming from a perfectly baked half chicken. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create a meal that feels both rustic and refined.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 to 3 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, halved

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking dish large enough to fit the half chicken.
2. Pat the half chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully in the oven.
3. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon rosemary, 1 tablespoon thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 2 cloves minced garlic to create a fragrant herb rub.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the half chicken, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
5. Place the chicken skin-side up in the prepared baking dish and squeeze the juice of 1 lemon half over the top. Tuck the squeezed lemon halves around the chicken in the dish.
6. Bake at 400°F for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

The magic of this dish lies in the herb-infused skin that crisps to perfection, sealing in the juicy, flavorful meat beneath. It’s a simple yet show-stopping centerpiece for any dinner table.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, scatter some quartered potatoes and carrots around the chicken before baking. They’ll roast in the herb-infused juices, making them the perfect side dish.

Maple Glazed Baked Half Chicken

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a maple-glazed baked half chicken, with its sticky-sweet crust and juicy meat. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that feels like a hug on a plate.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 pounds)
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
3. Place the half chicken on the prepared baking sheet and brush it all over with the maple glaze.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, brushing with more glaze every 15 minutes, until the chicken is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

The magic of this recipe lies in the glaze’s balance of sweetness and smokiness, creating a caramelized exterior that’s packed with flavor. It’s a dish that proves simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, let the chicken marinate in the glaze for an hour before baking.

Chili Lime Baked Half Chicken

Spice up your dinner routine with this Chili Lime Baked Half Chicken, a dish that packs a punch of flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Zest and juice of 1 lime
• 1 tbsp honey
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, the zest and juice of 1 lime, and 1 tbsp honey to create a marinade.
3. Place the half chicken on the prepared baking sheet and rub the marinade all over, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

The magic of this recipe lies in the bold chili-lime marinade that caramelizes beautifully in the oven, creating a sticky, flavorful crust that’s irresistible.

Tip: For an extra zing, serve with additional lime wedges on the side.

Curry Spiced Baked Half Chicken

Spice up your dinner routine with this Curry Spiced Baked Half Chicken, a dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 lemon, halved

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon curry powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon ground cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper if using.
3. Place the half chicken on the prepared baking sheet. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
4. Squeeze the juice of one lemon half over the chicken and place the remaining halves around the chicken on the baking sheet.
5. Bake at 400°F for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.

The magic of this recipe lies in the crispy, spice-crusted skin that locks in the juiciness of the chicken, making every bite a flavorful delight.

Tip: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before carving to keep all those delicious juices inside.

Baked Half Chicken with Mushroom Sauce

There’s something incredibly comforting about a perfectly baked half chicken, especially when it’s smothered in a rich, earthy mushroom sauce. This dish is a weeknight hero that feels anything but ordinary.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Rub the half chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, then season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp garlic powder.
2. Place the chicken skin-side up on a baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is golden and crispy.
3. While the chicken bakes, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they’re golden and tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and simmer until reduced by half, about 3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, butter, and fresh thyme leaves, cooking for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve the baked half chicken drizzled with the mushroom sauce.

The magic of this recipe lies in the contrast between the crispy chicken skin and the velvety mushroom sauce, creating a dish that’s both hearty and refined.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try using a mix of wild mushrooms like shiitake and cremini.

Orange Ginger Baked Half Chicken

This Orange Ginger Baked Half Chicken brings a zesty and spicy twist to your dinner table, perfect for those who love a flavorful punch in their meals.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 lbs)
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, grated ginger, minced garlic, honey, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place the half chicken in the prepared baking dish and pour the orange ginger mixture over it, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

The combination of orange and ginger not only tenderizes the chicken but also creates a glossy, caramelized glaze that’s irresistibly sticky and sweet with a spicy kick.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Balsamic Glazed Baked Half Chicken

This Balsamic Glazed Baked Half Chicken is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make, with a sticky-sweet glaze that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Pat the half chicken dry with paper towels, then rub it all over with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
2. Place the chicken skin-side up in a baking dish. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the balsamic vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and dried rosemary. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.
4. After the chicken has roasted for 30 minutes, brush half of the balsamic glaze over the chicken. Return to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes.
5. Brush the remaining glaze over the chicken and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

The magic of this dish lies in the glaze’s perfect balance of tangy and sweet, creating a caramelized crust that’s irresistible. Serve it straight from the oven for maximum impact.

Tip: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before carving to keep all those delicious juices locked in.

Pesto Baked Half Chicken with Tomatoes

Transform your weeknight dinner with this Pesto Baked Half Chicken with Tomatoes, a dish that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 lbs)
• 1/4 cup basil pesto
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Place the half chicken in the dish, skin side up. Rub the chicken all over with 2 tbsp of olive oil, then season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder.
3. Spread the 1/4 cup basil pesto evenly over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around the chicken in the dish.
4. Bake for 45 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is crispy and golden.
5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

The pesto creates a herby crust that locks in the chicken’s juices, while the tomatoes roast into sweet, jammy complements. It’s a fuss-free dish that feels special enough for guests.

Tip: For an extra burst of freshness, garnish with torn basil leaves before serving.

Baked Half Chicken with Herb Crust

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a herb-crusted baked half chicken, with its golden skin and juicy meat. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Pat the half chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy.
3. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, 2 cloves minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika.
4. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
5. Place the chicken skin-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 45-50 minutes, or until the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to keep it juicy.

The magic of this recipe lies in the herb crust, which locks in moisture and creates a flavor-packed bite with every piece. It’s a testament to how a few simple ingredients can transform the humble chicken into something extraordinary.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.

Soy Sauce and Honey Baked Half Chicken

This Soy Sauce and Honey Baked Half Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a sticky glaze that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 lbs)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp ground ginger, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
3. Place the half chicken on the prepared baking sheet and brush half of the soy sauce and honey mixture over it, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Bake for 30 minutes, then brush the remaining mixture over the chicken. Continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

The magic of this dish lies in the caramelized glaze that forms as the honey and soy sauce reduce, creating a depth of flavor that’s irresistibly good.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Baked Half Chicken with Lemon and Olives

Nothing says comfort like a perfectly baked half chicken, especially when it’s paired with the bright flavors of lemon and the briny punch of olives. This dish is a weeknight hero that’s as flavorful as it is simple.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 lemon, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Pat the half chicken dry with paper towels.
2. Rub the chicken all over with 2 tbsp olive oil, then season with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp dried oregano, making sure to get under the skin for maximum flavor.
3. Place the chicken skin-side up in a baking dish. Scatter 1 lemon (thinly sliced), 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives, and 3 minced garlic cloves around the chicken.
4. Bake at 400°F for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and the juices run clear when pierced at the thickest part.
5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

The magic of this recipe lies in the way the lemon and olives meld together under the chicken, creating a sauce that’s both tangy and rich without any extra work.

Tip: For an even crispier skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Garlic and Herb Butter Baked Half Chicken

There’s something incredibly comforting about a golden, herb-infused chicken coming out of the oven, and this Garlic and Herb Butter Baked Half Chicken is no exception. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that promises to be the star of any dinner table.

Ingredients

• 1 half chicken (about 2-3 lbs)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 lemon, halved

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Gently loosen the skin of the chicken with your fingers, being careful not to tear it. Spread half of the herb butter under the skin and the other half over the outside of the chicken.
4. Place the chicken in a baking dish and squeeze the juice of one lemon half over it. Add the squeezed lemon halves to the dish for extra flavor.
5. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

The magic of this recipe lies in the herb butter melting under the skin, creating an incredibly moist chicken with a crispy, flavorful crust. It’s a foolproof method that elevates the humble half chicken to something truly special.

Tip: For an extra crispy skin, broil the chicken for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 delicious half chicken recipes inspires your next baking adventure! Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try out your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest to keep these tasty ideas handy. Happy baking!