18 Flavorful Split Chicken Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Posted on March 18, 2025

Are you tired of the same old boring meals every night? Look no further! We’ve got a solution that’s quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious: split chicken recipes. With just one ingredient to prep – the chicken itself – these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights when you’re short on time but still want a tasty meal.

From classic flavors like garlic and herbs to more adventurous options like Jamaican jerk and teriyaki, we’ve rounded up 18 mouthwatering split chicken recipes that will become your new go-to’s. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, sweet, or smoky, we’ve got you covered with these flavorful and easy-to-make dishes.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of our top picks and provide step-by-step instructions on how to bring them to life in your kitchen.

Garlic Herb Roasted Split Chicken

Garlic Herb Roasted Split Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic roasted split chicken recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) split chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 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 garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some underneath the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, breast side up.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Lemon Pepper Grilled Split Chicken

Lemon Pepper Grilled Split Chicken
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of lemon zest with the warmth of black pepper. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, split in half
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest and black pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken with olive oil and season with salt, if desired.
4. Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down (if it has skin).
5. Sprinkle the lemon-pepper mixture evenly over each piece of chicken.
6. Close grill lid and cook for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Flip the chicken over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Honey Mustard Glazed Split Chicken

Honey Mustard Glazed Split Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this honey mustard glaze, adding a touch of sweetness to the savory flavors of split chicken breasts. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup 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, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spicy Cajun Split Chicken Skewers

Spicy Cajun Split Chicken Skewers
Add a spicy kick to your next barbecue with these flavorful chicken skewers, marinated in the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, olive oil, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes

Maple Glazed Split Chicken Thighs

Maple Glazed Split Chicken Thighs
Sweet and savory, this recipe elevates classic chicken thighs with a sticky maple glaze that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying tender and flavorful chicken in no time.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, split chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, honey, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the maple glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil and sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and glaze is caramelized.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Balsamic Rosemary Split Chicken

Balsamic Rosemary Split Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic Balsamic Rosemary Split Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts are infused with the sweetness of balsamic glaze, the earthiness of rosemary, and the crunch of crispy skin.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skin-on chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. While the chicken is baking, mix the balsamic glaze and chopped rosemary in a small bowl.
7. Remove the skillet from the oven and brush the balsamic glaze mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
8. Return the skillet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Teriyaki Split Chicken Stir-Fry

Teriyaki Split Chicken Stir-Fry
Get ready for a flavorful and savory stir-fry dish that combines the richness of teriyaki sauce with the tenderness of chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
– 2 tbsp teriyaki sauce
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken strips and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the mixed bell peppers and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Return the cooked chicken to the pan and pour in the teriyaki sauce. Stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Smoky Paprika Split Chicken Wings

Smoky Paprika Split Chicken Wings
Elevate your snack game with these smoky, spicy, and savory split chicken wings, perfect for a quick gathering or game day.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons smoky paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse chicken wings and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoky paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and salt.
4. Add the chicken wings to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and slightly caramelized.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Citrus Marinated Split Chicken Breast

Citrus Marinated Split Chicken Breast
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your chicken breasts with this easy and delicious recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless split chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange and grapefruit juices, garlic, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook chicken for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes

Crispy Parmesan Split Chicken Tenders

Crispy Parmesan Split Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tender game with this crispy, cheesy, and indulgent treat that’s perfect for snacking or as a main course. This recipe combines the classic flavors of parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs with the convenience of split chicken tenders.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, whisk together egg and a pinch of salt.
4. Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Asian-Inspired Soy Ginger Split Chicken

Asian-Inspired Soy Ginger Split Chicken
This recipe combines the bold flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil with the tender juiciness of chicken breast to create a mouthwatering Asian-inspired dish.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground white pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, garlic, and brown sugar.
3. Split each chicken breast in half lengthwise.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the soy-ginger mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
6. Sprinkle white pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

BBQ Split Chicken Drumsticks

BBQ Split Chicken Drumsticks
Satisfy your cravings with this easy and flavorful BBQ split chicken drumsticks recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these tender and juicy drumsticks are slathered in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the drumsticks under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the drumsticks.
4. Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from oven and brush with BBQ sauce. Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Herb-Crusted Split Chicken Cutlets

Herb-Crusted Split Chicken Cutlets
Elevate your chicken dish with a flavorful herb crust that adds a savory twist to classic split cutlets. This easy recipe yields tender and juicy results with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, thyme, and garlic.
4. Place the herb mixture on one half of each breast, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold the other half over the herbs to form a pocket.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Mediterranean Split Chicken with Olives and Tomatoes

Mediterranean Split Chicken with Olives and Tomatoes
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this vibrant and aromatic dish, featuring juicy chicken breast, briny olives, and sweet tomatoes.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olives, garlic, and oregano.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon the olive mixture evenly onto each breast, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Top each breast with diced tomatoes.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Jamaican Jerk Split Chicken Legs

Jamaican Jerk Split Chicken Legs
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering recipe for split chicken legs marinated in a spicy jerk seasoning.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning (available at most grocery stores or online)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, olive oil, garlic, and lime juice.
3. Add chicken legs to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Place chicken legs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each leg.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Sweet Chili Glazed Split Chicken Wings

Sweet Chili Glazed Split Chicken Wings
Sweet Chili Glazed Split Chicken Wings: A Sweet and Spicy Twist on Classic Chicken Wings

These sweet chili glazed split chicken wings are a unique twist on traditional buffalo wings, with a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual dinner parties.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse chicken wings and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, chili flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until fully coated with the glaze.
5. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken wings on the baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and serve hot.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Garlic Butter Split Chicken Thighs

Garlic Butter Split Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of butter and pungency of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these split chicken thighs are sure to please!

Ingredients:

– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and dried thyme until well combined.
4. Split each chicken thigh down the center, being careful not to cut too deeply.
5. Place the chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spread one-quarter of the garlic butter mixture onto each chicken thigh.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Pesto Marinated Split Chicken Breast

Pesto Marinated Split Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of pesto with the simplicity of split chicken breasts.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless split chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before baking.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each breast.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these 18 mouth-watering split chicken recipes! From garlic herb roasted to spicy Cajun skewers, and from honey mustard glazed to teriyaki stir-fry, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and sticky or savory and smoky, these flavorful recipes will become a staple in your kitchen. And the best part? They’re quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights.

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