How do you cook chicken breasts with the skin and bones in oven?

Cooking chicken breasts with skin and bones in the oven is a fantastic way to achieve incredibly juicy and flavorful results. Here's a comprehensive guide:

Ingredients:

* 2-4 boneless, skin-on chicken breasts (about 1.5-2 lbs)

* Salt and freshly ground black pepper

* Olive oil or other cooking oil

* Your favorite herbs and spices (e.g., rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, paprika)

Equipment:

* Baking sheet

* Roasting rack (optional but recommended)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken:

* Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.

* Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.

* If desired, rub the skin with olive oil and sprinkle with your preferred herbs and spices.

2. Preheat the oven:

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

3. Roast the chicken:

* With a roasting rack: Place the chicken breasts on a roasting rack set over a baking sheet. This allows for even cooking and helps the skin to crisp up nicely.

* Without a roasting rack: Place the chicken breasts directly on the baking sheet.

* Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken.

4. Rest and serve:

* Let the chicken breasts rest for 5-10 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute for a more succulent result.

Tips and Variations:

* Brine the chicken: For extra juiciness, soak the chicken breasts in a salt brine (1 cup salt per gallon of water) for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.

* Add vegetables: Surround the chicken breasts with your favorite vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or onions for a complete meal.

* Make a sauce: Deglaze the baking sheet with a bit of wine or broth after cooking to create a flavorful sauce.

* Experiment with herbs and spices: Get creative with different flavor combinations to suit your taste.

Important Note: Always cook chicken thoroughly to ensure safety. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Enjoy your delicious oven-roasted chicken breasts!