How to Cut Split Chicken Breast with Ribs

In gastronomy, the right cut can make all the difference, transforming a simple dish into a culinary masterpiece. Split chicken breast with ribs is a true gem that offers the best white and dark meat, accompanied by the flavorful richness of the rib section.

Knowing how to cut split chicken breast with ribs allows you to create dishes leaving your taste buds in awe.

With each slice and precise cut, you’ll unveil the hidden potential of split chicken breast with ribs, creating dishes that dazzle your family and impress your friends.

How to Cut Split Chicken Breast with Ribs

Cutting a split chicken breast with ribs can easily cause disease by following these steps. 

With these steps, you can confidently cut a split chicken breast with ribs into two bone-in breast halves, ready to be cooked in various ways, such as roasting, grilling, or pan-searing.

What Will You Need

Before we delve into the cutting technique, let’s gather the necessary tools:

• Cutting Board: A sturdy, spacious cutting board will provide ample space to work comfortably and safely.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: A high-quality, sharp chef’s knife is essential for precise cuts without tearing the meat.
• Kitchen Shears: You’ll need kitchen shears to cut through the chicken bones cleanly and efficiently.

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

• Wash and Pat Dry: Start by rinsing the chicken breast with cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
• Place Breast-Side Up: Position the chicken breast on the cutting board, breast-side up, with the ribs facing you.

Step 2: Removing the Ribs

• Locate the Breastbone: Feel along the center of the breast to find the breastbone, which runs vertically down the middle.
• Make a Vertical Cut: Using the chef’s knife, make a straight, vertical cut alongside one side of the breastbone, from top to bottom. Avoid cutting cut too close to the bone to avoid damaging the meat.
• Separate the Meat from the Rib Cage: Hold the chicken breast firmly with one hand while carefully running the knife along the rib cage to separate the meat from the bones. Move the knife gently and slowly to maintain control.
• Repeat on the Other Side: Flip the chicken breast to the other side and repeat the process, making a vertical cut along the opposite side of the breastbone and separating the meat from the ribs.
• Remove the Ribs: Once both sides are detached, use the kitchen shears to cut through any remaining connective tissue and remove the ribs entirely from the chicken breast.

Step 3: Splitting the Breast

• Locate the Natural Seam: Lay the deboned chicken breast on the cutting board, smooth side down. Find the natural seam that runs horizontally through the center of the meat.
• Create Two Even Halves: Carefully slice along the natural seam, splitting the chicken breast into two halves. Make sure to maintain an even cut for uniform cooking.

Step 4: Butterfly Cut (Optional)

• Position the Halves: If desired, you can butterfly each half to create thinner, quicker-cooking pieces. Place a halved chicken breast flat on the cutting board, then slice horizontally through the center, leaving about 1/2 inch of meat uncut.
• Open Up the Halves: Open the chicken breast like a book after the initial cut. It should resemble a butterfly when fully opened.

What is Chicken Ribs Cut?

Chicken ribs are a unique and flavorful cut of bone-in chicken thighs designed to resemble the traditional ribs eating experience. Despite the name, chicken ribs are not ribs but rather a specific cut of chicken thighs that is shaped and prepared to mimic the taste and texture of ribs.

They offer all the delicious flavors typically associated with barbecue ribs but with a significant health advantage – they contain 75% less fat and calories than pork ribs.

As a healthier alternative, chicken ribs are a great option for those who enjoy the taste of barbecue without guilt.

What Does Split Chicken Breast with Ribs Mean?

A split chicken breast with ribs refers to a specific cut of chicken that includes the breast portion and the ribs and breastbone still attached.

When a whole chicken is split down the center, the breast section is divided into two halves, each containing part of the breast meat and the rib bones.

This cut is known as a “split chicken breast with ribs.

The ribs add flavor and moisture to the meat during cooking, making it a popular choice for various recipes. It’s commonly used in roasting, grilling, or baking dishes to create flavorful and tender chicken meals.

The bone-in nature of this cut also helps retain moisture and ensures even cooking throughout the breast meat.

Is Chicken Breast with Rib Meat Better?

Yes, chicken breast with rib meat can be considered better. This chicken breast includes the meat from the breast and some rib meat, contributing to a slightly richer flavor and a chewier texture than a regular boneless, skinless chicken breast.

The rib meat also helps increase the moisture content of the chicken, making it juicier and more succulent when cooked.

Furthermore, chicken breast with rib meat is a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle building and overall health. While it contains a little more fat than a boneless, skinless chicken breast, the difference in fat content is not substantial, and it remains a relatively lean and healthy option.

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