Chicken breast is a go-to for quick, healthy meals. It’s lean, versatile, and easy to cook, making it perfect for any night of the week. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-fried, it’s a delicious and protein-packed option that’s sure to satisfy.
Why We Love This
Chicken breast is a true kitchen hero. It’s not only versatile and easy to cook but also packed with lean protein, making it the perfect choice for a healthy meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick dinner or meal prep for the week, chicken breast checks all the boxes.
Here’s why we absolutely love this recipe:
- Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a juicy, tender chicken breast ready in no time.
- Healthy: As a lean protein, chicken breast helps fuel your body with essential nutrients while keeping things light. It’s great for anyone looking to stay on track with their health goals.
- Flavor Versatility: Chicken breast takes on any flavor beautifully, whether you’re seasoning it with a classic herb mix or adding bold spices. It’s the perfect blank canvas for creating different flavor profiles.
- Great for Meal Prep: This recipe works wonderfully for prepping ahead. Cook in bulk and store it for a quick meal throughout the week. It’s a real time-saver!
Ingredients
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the main ingredient, providing lean protein and great flavor.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps sear the chicken and adds moisture.
Garlic: Minced garlic gives the chicken a bold, savory flavor.
Salt: Salt enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
Black Pepper: Black pepper adds mild heat and flavor.
Paprika: Paprika adds a smoky taste and color.
Dried Oregano: Oregano gives the chicken a herby flavor.
Lemon: Lemon juice adds freshness and balances the richness.
Instructions
Let’s get cooking! This simple chicken breast recipe is quick and easy, and in just a few steps, you’ll have a flavorful, juicy dish ready to serve. Follow along, and I’ll guide you through each step for perfect results every time.
Prep the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasonings stick better and ensures a nice, crispy exterior.
Season the Chicken
Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides. Then, sprinkle the salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano evenly over the chicken. Don’t forget to rub the seasonings in gently to ensure they’re well-coated.
Sear the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. If you prefer a more intense sear, press gently on the chicken with a spatula to help it brown more evenly.
Add Garlic & Lemon
After the chicken is nicely seared, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for a burst of brightness and let it cook for an additional minute to infuse the flavors.
Check for Doneness
To ensure your chicken breasts are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken—if the juices run clear, it’s done.
Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken extra tender and juicy.
Pro Tips
To make sure your chicken breast turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips that’ll elevate your cooking game:
Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to help seasonings stick and get a crispy texture.
Season the Chicken: Coat the chicken with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Rub the seasonings in evenly.
Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet, add the chicken, and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Add Garlic & Lemon: Reduce heat, add minced garlic, cook for 1-2 minutes, and squeeze lemon juice over the chicken.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature (165°F/74°C) or cut to see if juices run clear.
Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
Variations
Chicken breast is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few variations to try out, depending on what you’re craving:
Grilled Chicken Breast
If you’re in the mood for a smoky, charred flavor, try grilling your chicken breast instead of pan-searing it. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side. The result? A juicy, slightly crispy chicken breast with that irresistible grill mark.
Chicken with Creamy Sauce
For a richer dish, add a creamy sauce after cooking the chicken. You can make a simple garlic cream sauce by adding heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic to the skillet after removing the chicken. Let it simmer until thickened, then pour it over the chicken for an indulgent finish.
Crispy Chicken Breast
Want some crunch? Coat your chicken breasts with breadcrumbs or panko before cooking. This adds a crispy texture that’s perfect if you love a bit of crunch with your chicken. Simply dip the chicken in beaten egg, coat with breadcrumbs, and pan-fry until golden.
Lemon Herb Chicken
If you’re looking for something refreshing, add more lemon and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Marinate the chicken in a lemon-oregano mixture for 30 minutes before cooking, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving.
Spicy Chicken Breast
For those who love heat, season the chicken with chili powder, cayenne pepper, and a drizzle of hot sauce before cooking. You can also add a spicy marinade to infuse the chicken with extra heat and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made the perfect chicken breast, it’s time to serve it up! This versatile dish pairs well with a variety of sides, allowing you to create a complete meal that fits your mood and dietary preferences. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
Roasted Vegetables
A classic pairing for chicken breast, roasted veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers bring out a sweet, savory balance. The caramelization from roasting enhances their natural flavors and makes for a healthy side that complements the juicy chicken.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
If you’re craving something comforting, mashed potatoes are a perfect match. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with the tender chicken, and the garlic adds a flavorful kick.
Quinoa or Rice
For a lighter, protein-packed side, serve the chicken with quinoa or brown rice. These whole grains provide fiber and nutrients, making them a great addition to your meal. You can even toss them with some fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
Fresh Salad
For a refreshing and light side, pair your chicken breast with a mixed green salad. Use leafy greens like spinach or arugula and toss them with some cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a crisp, vibrant side that balances the richness of the chicken.
Steamed Asparagus or Broccoli
If you’re looking for a nutrient-packed side, steamed asparagus or broccoli is a perfect choice. They’re both quick to cook, full of vitamins, and offer a subtle earthy flavor that complements the chicken.
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FAQs
How do I keep chicken breast from being dry?
The key to juicy chicken breast is not overcooking it! Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and aim for 165°F (74°C). Another tip is to let the chicken rest after cooking; this helps the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
Can I use frozen chicken breast?
Yes, you can! If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, it’s important to thaw them properly before cooking. For even cooking, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a rush, you can also use the defrost setting on your microwave.
How do I season chicken breast?
Chicken breast takes on the flavor of any seasoning or marinade you use. For a simple seasoning, sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder. For extra flavor, try paprika, oregano, and lemon zest. Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes can also add depth to the flavor.
Can I bake chicken breast instead of pan-searing it?
Absolutely! Baking is a great option for chicken breast. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This method is perfect if you’re cooking multiple pieces at once or prefer a hands-off approach.
How do I know when my chicken breast is cooked through?
The best way to know if your chicken is done is by using a meat thermometer. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), your chicken is perfectly cooked. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can slice into the thickest part of the chicken—if the juices run clear, it’s ready.
chicken breast
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 lemon
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
- Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasonings stick better and ensures a nice, crispy exterior.
Season the Chicken
- Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides. Then, sprinkle the salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano evenly over the chicken. Don’t forget to rub the seasonings in gently to ensure they’re well-coated.
Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. If you prefer a more intense sear, press gently on the chicken with a spatula to help it brown more evenly.
Add Garlic & Lemon
- After the chicken is nicely seared, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for a burst of brightness and let it cook for an additional minute to infuse the flavors.
Check for Doneness
- To ensure your chicken breasts are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken—if the juices run clear, it’s done.
Rest the Chicken
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken extra tender and juicy.