Juicy & Flavorful Chicken Breast – Easy Recipe for Perfectly Cooked Chicken
This easy chicken breast recipe ensures juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken every time. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, this method guarantees a perfectly cooked, protein-packed meal that pairs well with any side dish. Ideal for meal prep, weight loss, or a healthy dinner option!
Equipment
- ✅ Cutting board
- ✅ Sharp knife
- ✅ Meat mallet (optional, for even thickness)
- ✅ Mixing bowls
- ✅ Measuring spoons
- ✅ Cast iron skillet or non-stick pan (for pan-searing)
- ✅ Baking dish (for baking)
- ✅ Grill (for grilling)
- ✅ Tongs
- ✅ Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 🔹 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 🔹 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter for extra flavor
- 🔹 1 tsp salt
- 🔹 ½ tsp black pepper
- 🔹 1 tsp garlic powder
- 🔹 1 tsp onion powder
- 🔹 1 tsp paprika for color & mild smoky flavor
- 🔹 ½ tsp dried oregano or thyme optional
- 🔹 1 tbsp lemon juice optional, for tenderness
- 🔹 1 tsp honey optional, for slight caramelization
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- 1️⃣ Flatten the chicken (optional): Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
- 2️⃣ Pat dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture, helping the seasoning stick better.
- Step 2: Season the Chicken
- 3️⃣ Drizzle with olive oil: Coat both sides of the chicken breast with olive oil or melted butter.
- 4️⃣ Mix spices: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried herbs.
- 5️⃣ Rub generously: Massage the spice mixture onto both sides of the chicken.
- Step 3: Cooking Options
- 🔥 Pan-Searing (Best for Juicy Chicken with a Golden Crust)
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil.
- Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, flipping only once.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it sit for 2 minutes before removing.
- 🔥 Baking (Best for Tender & Even Cooking)
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place chicken in a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- 🔥 Grilling (Best for Smoky & Charred Flavor)
- Preheat grill to 375°F (190°C) and grease grates.
- Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, flipping once.
- Rest before serving.
- Step 4: Rest & Serve
- 6️⃣ Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
- 7️⃣ Serve: Enjoy with steamed veggies, salad, or rice!
Notes
✅ Use a meat thermometer – The internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C).
✅ For extra tenderness, marinate – Let chicken sit in the seasoning for 30 minutes to overnight.
✅ Avoid overcooking – Remove from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F to prevent dryness.
✅ Customize seasoning – Add chili flakes for spice, or use Italian seasoning for variety.
✅ For extra tenderness, marinate – Let chicken sit in the seasoning for 30 minutes to overnight.
✅ Avoid overcooking – Remove from heat as soon as it reaches 165°F to prevent dryness.
✅ Customize seasoning – Add chili flakes for spice, or use Italian seasoning for variety.