Quick Answer
Yes, it is perfectly fine to cut chicken breasts in half. This can be done for a variety of reasons such as to cook them more evenly, to make them fit better in a pan or dish, or to portion them into smaller serving sizes. As long as raw chicken is handled safely and cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F, cutting chicken breasts in half poses no safety issues.
Why Would You Cut Chicken Breasts in Half?
There are a few common reasons someone may want to cut a chicken breast in half:
To Cook More Evenly
Chicken breasts can often be thicker on one end and thinner on the other. Cutting them in half can help them cook more evenly, so no part is overcooked or undercooked. It allows the heat to penetrate both halves at the same rate.
To Fit Better in a Pan/Dish
Sometimes chicken breasts are too large to fit nicely in a pan or baking dish. Halving them makes each piece smaller so they take up less space when cooking. This allows more to cook at once.
To Portion for Serving
Cutting chicken breasts in half is an easy way to portion them into more reasonable serving sizes. One very large chicken breast may be too much for one person. Halving them provides appropriately sized 3-6 oz portions.
For Recipes Calling for Halved Breasts
Some recipes specifically call for halved or butterflied chicken breasts, such as for stuffing chicken breasts or pounding them thin for dishes like chicken parmesan. Following the recipe instructions is always recommended.
To Speed Up Cooking
Because they are thinner, halved chicken breasts will cook faster than whole breasts. This can be helpful if you’re in a time crunch but want quick cooked chicken.
To Pound for Even Thickness
Pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness helps them cook evenly. It’s easier to pound halves rather than a whole breast.
Is it Safe to Cut Raw Chicken?
It is completely safe to cut raw chicken as long as proper food safety precautions are followed:
– Wash hands and all surfaces that have touched raw chicken with hot soapy water.
– Use a clean cutting board dedicated to raw meats.
– Use a sharp knife or shears so the chicken does not tear or rip.
– Immediately wash knife/shears after cutting raw chicken.
– Refrigerate cut chicken if not cooking immediately.
– Cook chicken thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F verified with a food thermometer.
Following basic food safety practices when handling and prepping raw chicken reduces any risk of illness.
How to Cut a Chicken Breast in Half
Cutting a chicken breast in half is easy to do:
Step 1
Place the chicken breast smooth side down on a clean cutting board. Hold it steady with one hand.
Step 2
Using a sharp chef’s knife, slice horizontally through the center of the breast, cutting down until you reach about 1/2″ from the cutting board.
Step 3
Open and rotate the breast 180 degrees then make another horizontal cut through the same path on the other side, fully separating the two halves.
Step 4
Check that the breast is cleanly cut in half into two even pieces. If not, make small adjustments by trimming any uneven edges.
Here is a helpful video showing the process:
It’s that easy! Be sure your knife remains sharp to make the process seamless and safe.
Cutting Tips
Here are some useful tips when cutting chicken breasts in half:
– Let chicken breasts sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before cutting. Cold chicken can be difficult to cut cleanly.
– Keep your non-cutting hand safely out of the way curled in while cutting.
– Make sure to cut all the way through until the breast is fully split in two.
– If the breast has a tenderloin still attached, remove this first then cut the breast in half.
– Rinse knives immediately after cutting raw chicken to avoid cross contamination.
– Use a sturdy cutting board that won’t slide around. A damp paper towel underneath can help hold it in place.
– Be mindful of the shape you want. Long strips may be ideal for fajitas while halves work for entree servings.
Butterflying vs Halving Chicken Breasts
Butterflying and halving chicken breasts are two different, but similar techniques:
Butterflying
This involves cutting the breast almost in half through the thick side, then opening it up so it lies flat like butterfly wings. The two halves stay connected on one side.
Halving
Cutting completely through the thick side of the breast separates it into two halves that are fully disconnected.
Butterflying allows the breast to lie flat for pounding or stuffing under the attached side. Halving creates two separate pieces with more surface area.
Cooking Halved Chicken Breasts
Split chicken breasts can be cooked in almost any way that whole breasts can be prepared. Here are some cooking ideas:
Baked
Coat halves with oil or spices and bake at 375°F for 18-22 minutes until 165°F.
Sautéed
Cook halves in an oiled skillet over medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes per side.
Grilled
Oil halves and grill over direct medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side.
Air Fried
Air fry halved chicken breasts at 380°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Slow Cooker
Place halves in a slow cooker with sauce or seasoning and cook on low 4-6 hours.
Instant Pot
Cook for 8-10 minutes at high pressure then natural release. Finish with sauté to brown.
Poached
Gently simmer halves in broth until cooked through, about 10 minutes.
Fried
Coat in flour, egg wash, then breadcrumbs. Deep fry at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Marinade and Seasoning Ideas
Soaking halved chicken breasts in a marinade adds lots of flavor. Try marinating for 30 minutes up to overnight. Season with spices before or after cooking. Here are marinade and seasoning suggestions:
Marinades
– Lemon, herb, garlic, olive oil
– Soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger
– Buttermilk ranch
– Italian dressing
– Teriyaki
– Yogurt, tandoori spices
Seasonings
– Lemon pepper
– Chili powder and cumin
– Jerk seasoning
– Cajun seasoning
– Mediterranean herbs like oregano, basil, parsley
– Barbecue rub
– Ranch seasoning
What to Serve with Halved Chicken Breasts
Here are some delicious side dishes that pair nicely with halved chicken breasts:
– Rice or roasted potatoes
– Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, asparagus
– Salad or slaw
– Pasta salad
– Baked beans, corn on the cob
– Garlic bread or rolls
Get creative with your favorite flavors and ingredients! Halved chicken breasts are so versatile.
Storing Cooked Halved Chicken Breasts
Store leftovers properly to preserve freshness and prevent illness:
– Let cool, then refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
– Place in airtight container or resealable plastic bags.
– Use within 3-4 days. Freeze for longer storage.
– Reheat fully to 165°F until steaming hot.
With proper storage, cooked chicken stays fresh for use in other quick meals and recipes.
Conclusion
Cutting chicken breasts in half is a simple kitchen skill with many benefits. It promotes even cooking, portions them conveniently, fits them in pans better, and allows for faster cooking times. As long as basic food safety for handling raw chicken is followed, it is completely safe to cut chicken breasts in two. Halved chicken breasts can then be cooked using almost any moist or dry heat cooking method and paired with an array of side dishes. Learn this easy technique to unlock more options when cooking bone-in, boneless, large, or thin chicken breasts!