Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a versatile protein that can be transformed into countless delicious meals. However, they can easily become dry or bland if not cooked properly. This recipe ensures your chicken breasts are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor every time. Whether you’re meal-prepping, whipping up a quick dinner, or serving guests, this method is foolproof!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
Equipment
- Large skillet or grill pan
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil (for resting)
Instructions
1. Prepare the chicken breasts:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Pound them gently with a meat mallet to even out their thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
2. Season the chicken:
Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken.
3. Heat the pan:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering.
4. Cook the chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on the first side without moving them, allowing a nice golden crust to form. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Rest the chicken:
Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain juices.
6. Serve:
Slice the chicken breasts and serve them as a main dish or use them in salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes.
Tips
- Don’t overcook: Overcooking is the main reason chicken breasts become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach just 165°F (74°C).
- Marinate for extra flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
- Oven option: For a hands-off approach, bake the seasoned chicken breasts at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until they reach the proper internal temperature.
- Meal prep: These chicken breasts store well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making them great for meal prep.
Cooking boneless, skinless chicken breasts doesn’t have to be a challenge! With this recipe, you’ll get tender, flavorful results every time. Serve them with your favorite sides or slice them up for salads, wraps, and more. This recipe is a true kitchen staple!
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or grill pan
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil (for resting)
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice optional
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken breasts:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Pound them gently with a meat mallet to even out their thickness. This ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Season the chicken:
- Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Heat the pan:
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering.
- Cook the chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on the first side without moving them, allowing a nice golden crust to form. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the chicken:
- Remove the chicken from the pan and place it on a plate. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps retain juices.
- Serve:
- Slice the chicken breasts and serve them as a main dish or use them in salads, sandwiches, or pasta dishes.
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