This chicken recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. It uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly, perfect for busy days. Whether you’re cooking for family or just want a no-fail dinner, this juicy, homemade chicken is always a good choice.
Why We Love This
There’s something so comforting about a simple chicken recipe that just works every time. Whether it’s your first time in the kitchen or you’re a seasoned home cook, this recipe makes it easy to serve a juicy, flavorful chicken dinner without the stress.
Here’s why this one stands out:
- It’s beginner-friendly. You don’t need fancy tools or complicated steps—just basic ingredients and a few minutes of hands-on prep.
- Great for weeknights. It’s fast, fuss-free, and perfect when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Customizable flavor. Whether you love bold spices or classic herbs, this recipe gives you a flavorful base to make it your own.
- Works with any cut. Chicken thighs or breasts—whatever you have on hand will turn out tender and delicious.
- Family-approved. Even picky eaters will go back for seconds, making it a go-to for quick family dinners.
If you’re looking for a no-fail, easy chicken dinner that’s both satisfying and adaptable, this recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
Chicken Thighs – These are juicy and tender. You can use chicken breasts if you prefer, but thighs stay moist.
Olive Oil – Helps with searing and adds flavor. You can swap it for another oil if needed.
Garlic – Gives a savory taste. Fresh garlic is best, but garlic powder works too.
Paprika – Adds smokiness and color. You can use cayenne for extra heat.
Oregano – Adds a herby flavor. You can replace it with thyme or rosemary.
Salt – Enhances the flavor without being too salty.
Black Pepper – Adds a bit of heat and depth. Freshly cracked is ideal.
Lemon Juice – Gives a fresh, zesty finish. Fresh lemon is best, but bottled works.
Instructions
Making this chicken recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Follow these easy steps for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.
Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
Heat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken in the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Add Garlic and Lemon: Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken.
Finish Cooking: Lower the heat, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken reaches 165°F.
Rest Before Serving: Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
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Pro Tips
For the best results, here are a few tips to elevate your chicken recipe:
Dry the Chicken Well: Patting the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning helps to achieve a nice, crispy sear. Moisture on the surface can prevent the chicken from browning properly.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing, make sure there’s enough space between each piece of chicken. Overcrowding the pan causes the chicken to steam instead of sear, leaving you with less crispy skin and uneven cooking.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the meat. This ensures it’s safe to eat without being overcooked and dry.
Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender and flavorful.
Customize the Seasoning: While this recipe calls for paprika and oregano, feel free to experiment with other spices or herbs you love. A little cayenne pepper for heat or thyme for extra earthiness can be a fun twist.
Variations
One of the best things about this chicken recipe is its versatility. You can easily switch things up depending on your flavor preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few delicious variations to try:
Spicy Chicken: If you love a little heat, add cayenne pepper or a spicy chili powder to the seasoning mix. You can also drizzle some hot sauce or sriracha over the chicken just before serving for an extra kick.
Creamy Garlic Chicken: For a richer, creamy twist, add a splash of heavy cream and some extra garlic to the pan once the chicken is seared. Stir it around to make a delicious creamy sauce to pour over the chicken.
Herb-Infused Chicken: Swap the oregano for fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley to change up the flavor profile. Fresh herbs can bring a bright, aromatic quality that pairs perfectly with chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve perfected your chicken, it’s time to think about what to serve it with. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate meal, here are some great side dishes to pair with this flavorful chicken:
Roasted Vegetables: A classic pairing! Roast some carrots, brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The caramelized edges complement the savory chicken perfectly.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve the chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up all the delicious juices. For extra flavor, try cooking the grains in chicken broth instead of water.
Green Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad can balance the richness of the chicken. Toss together some mixed greens, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting meal, pair the chicken with creamy mashed potatoes. Add a little garlic or sour cream for extra richness.
Garlic Bread: If you’re craving something indulgent, serve your chicken with a side of garlic bread. It’s the perfect way to mop up any extra sauce from the chicken.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you make the most of this chicken recipe:
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be substituted, but keep in mind that they tend to cook faster and are leaner. Be sure not to overcook them to avoid dryness. You may also want to adjust the cooking time slightly.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the seasoning mix. For a deeper flavor, drizzle some sriracha or hot sauce over the chicken right before serving.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the chicken ahead of time, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. This makes it a great option for meal prepping!
Can I make this recipe on the grill?
Yes! You can easily grill this chicken. Simply season it as directed, then grill over medium heat for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Chicken recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
- Start by patting the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps get a nice, crispy sear. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Don’t be shy—coating it evenly ensures every bite is full of flavor.
Heat the Pan
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke. This will help achieve that beautiful golden-brown crust.
Sear the Chicken
- Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the skillet, skin side down if using skin-on, and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a rich golden-brown color and a crispy exterior.
Add Garlic and Lemon
- Once the chicken is seared, add the minced garlic to the pan. Let it cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Squeeze the lemon juice over the chicken to add a fresh, zesty touch.
Finish Cooking
- Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the pan. Let the chicken cook for another 5-7 minutes, depending on thickness, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (use a meat thermometer for accuracy). This ensures the chicken is juicy and cooked through.
Rest Before Serving
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and moist.