Chicken breast often gets a bad rap for being bland and boring, but with a little creativity, it can become the star of your dinner table. I’ve gathered 17 easy chicken breast recipes that are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.
From tangy marinades to savory one-pan dishes, these recipes offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking to spice up your meal routine, you’ll find these chicken breast recipes both versatile and satisfying. Let’s dive in and discover how to transform this humble ingredient into mouthwatering meals.
Why Chicken Breast?
Chicken breast stands out for several reasons, making it a popular choice for meals. Firstly, chicken breast is lean, packing high protein content with minimal fat. According to the USDA, a 3.5-ounce serving provides approximately 31 grams of protein and less than 4 grams of fat.
Additionally, chicken breast is versatile, easily adapting to various cuisines and cooking methods. You can grill, bake, sauté, or stir-fry it, allowing creativity to flourish in the kitchen. Examples include marinating it for grilled dishes or slicing it thin for stir-fries.
It’s also cost-effective, often priced lower than other meats. This affordability makes it accessible for families and those on a budget.
Being easy to cook is another benefit. Even for beginners, whipping up a quick, healthy meal with chicken breast doesn’t pose a challenge. Whether preparing a simple stir-fry or an elaborate stuffed chicken breast, the process remains straightforward.
Lastly, chicken breast is a healthy option. It provides essential nutrients without the extra calories often found in other protein sources. Consuming it supports muscle health, thanks to its high protein content, and promotes overall well-being.
Choosing chicken breast aligns with dietary goals while offering flavorsome meal possibilities.
Recipe 1: Classic Grilled Chicken
Classic grilled chicken delivers robust flavors and simplicity. It’s ideal for any weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Place chicken breasts on a cutting board, then pound with a meat mallet until they reach even thickness.
- Marinate Chicken: Combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a bowl. Coat chicken breasts thoroughly with the mixture. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes for better flavor infusion.
- Heat Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Ensure it’s properly heated before adding the chicken.
- Grill Chicken: Place chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, ensuring clear grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
- Rest Chicken: Once cooked, remove chicken from the grill. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juiciness.
Classic grilled chicken pairs well with a variety of sides, like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Recipe 2: Baked Lemon Chicken
This Baked Lemon Chicken recipe delivers a tangy, flavorful experience with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, it transforms simple ingredients into a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 3 lemons (juice and zest)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while preparing the chicken.
- Zest and juice the lemons, then mix with olive oil, garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Place chicken breasts in a baking dish. Pour the lemon mixture over them, ensuring even coating.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, adding a fresh, vibrant touch.
Recipe 3: Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is a rich, creamy dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
- In the same skillet, melt butter, then add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream, stir, and bring to a simmer.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and whisk until sauce is smooth.
- Slice cooked chicken breasts and return to the skillet.
- Toss cooked fettuccine with the sauce and chicken slices.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Recipe 4: Honey Garlic Chicken
This easy Honey Garlic Chicken combines sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a large plastic bag, pour marinade over them, and seal tightly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, turning the bag occasionally.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and place it in the hot skillet. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour remaining marinade into the skillet, bring it to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened. Pour sauce over cooked chicken.
- Serve: Plate the chicken and drizzle with extra sauce if desired. Serve with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Recipe 5: Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan, an Italian-American classic, offers a comforting blend of crispy chicken, marinara sauce, and melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/2-inch thickness.
- Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour mixed with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge each chicken breast in the flour, then dip in the eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce over each piece and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
This crispy, cheesy Chicken Parmesan pairs perfectly with spaghetti or a fresh green salad.
Recipe 6: BBQ Chicken
BBQ Chicken offers a savory, smoky flavor perfect for outdoor gatherings and weeknight dinners. This recipe is both simple and delicious.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken Place chicken breasts in a large bowl. Add BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat each breast evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Preheat Grill Heat the grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill Chicken Place marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Baste occasionally with extra BBQ sauce for added flavor.
- Serve Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side and enjoy your homemade BBQ Chicken.
Recipe 7: Chicken Marsala
Chicken Marsala combines tender chicken breasts with a rich, wine-based sauce, creating an elegant dish that’s simple to make. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, it brings delicious, savory flavors to your table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
- 1/2 cup Marsala wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to a uniform thickness of about 1/2 inch. Mix flour, salt, pepper, and oregano in a shallow dish. Dredge chicken in the flour mix, coating evenly.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
- Sauté Mushrooms: Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Sauté the sliced mushrooms for about 5 minutes until they’re browned and softened.
- Deglaze Pan: Pour Marsala wine into the skillet, and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Make Sauce: Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine: Return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Simmer in the sauce for 3-4 minutes until heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
This Chicken Marsala pairs well with mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without leaving your home.
Recipe 8: Chicken Stir Fry
Chicken Stir Fry brings a burst of flavors with tender chicken breasts and crisp vegetables. This quick and easy recipe suits any busy weeknight.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Combine chicken slices and cornstarch in a bowl, stirring to coat evenly.
- Cook Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook Vegetables: Add mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp.
- Combine Ingredients: Return chicken to the skillet. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chicken broth. Stir for 2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, garnishing with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
Recipe 9: Chicken Tacos
Chicken tacos bring vibrant flavors and textures together in a simple, delicious dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small tortillas
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prep Chicken: Mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken breasts with olive oil, then rub them evenly with the spice mix.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly.
- Warm Tortillas: Heat tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side or until warmed and slightly charred around the edges.
- Assemble Tacos: Place sliced chicken on each tortilla. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco.
- Serve: Serve the tacos with lime wedges for squeezing over the top, adding a burst of fresh flavor.
Chicken tacos offer a quick, satisfying meal that’s easy to customize with favorite toppings.
Recipe 10: Chicken Fajitas
Chicken fajitas offer a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s both easy to prepare and enjoyable to eat. By using fresh ingredients, this dish brings color and taste to the table.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 medium onion
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Season Chicken: In a bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken strips in the mixture.
- Cook Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare Vegetables: Slice red, green, and yellow bell peppers, and the onion, into thin strips.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the bell peppers and onion. Cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet, mixing with the vegetables until heated through.
- Warm Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
- Assemble Fajitas: Spoon the chicken and vegetable mixture onto the warmed tortillas. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve with lime wedges for a burst of freshness.
This easy chicken fajitas recipe leverages simple ingredients to create a flavorful and colorful meal.
Recipe 11: Chicken Salad
Chicken Salad combines fresh vegetables and seasoned chicken breast for a healthy, flavorful meal. This simple recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the shredded chicken, celery, grapes, and red onion in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture, and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as necessary.
- (Optional) Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Serve the Chicken Salad on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or alongside crackers. This versatile recipe offers a delicious, healthy option that’s ready in minutes.
Recipe 12: Chicken Piccata
Chicken Piccata delivers a zesty, savory flavor profile for an elegant yet simple meal. Its tangy lemon sauce, capers, and juicy chicken bring delight in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Pound chicken breasts to 1/4-inch thickness. Mix flour, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
- Coat Chicken: Dredge chicken breasts in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken breasts until golden brown on both sides, approximately 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
- Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add chicken broth, lemon juice, and capers. Bring to a boil, scraping up browned bits from the pan. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine and Serve: Return chicken to skillet and simmer in sauce until heated through, about 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Chicken Piccata pairs well with pasta or steamed vegetables, making it a versatile dish for any dining occasion.
Recipe 13: Teriyaki Chicken
This Teriyaki Chicken recipe offers a sweet-savory taste that’ll transform your chicken breast into a flavorful delight. Suitable for any meal, it’s both easy to make and appreciated by all.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Sauce: Combine soy sauce, mirin, sugar, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Mix until sugar dissolves.
- Marinate Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag. Add half the teriyaki sauce. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade, discard the marinade, and cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
- Simmer Sauce: Pour remaining teriyaki sauce into the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced and thickened.
- Serve: Slice chicken breasts, drizzle with thickened sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve with rice or vegetables for a complete meal.
Recipe 14: Chicken Pot Pie
Chicken Pot Pie combines tender chicken breast with savory vegetables and a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky crust. This comfort food is perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, diced chicken breast
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1/3 cup chopped onion
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 2/3 cup milk
- 2 (9-inch) unbaked pie crusts
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Cook Vegetables: In a saucepan, combine carrots, peas, and potatoes. Add enough water to cover the vegetables and boil for 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter. Add chopped onion and cook until soft. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and celery seed. Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk until thickened.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix the cooked chicken and drained vegetables with the sauce.
- Assemble Pie: Place one of the pie crusts in the bottom of a 9-inch pie pan. Pour the chicken mixture into the crust. Cover with the second pie crust and seal the edges. Cut slits in the top to release steam.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before serving to set the filling.
Chicken Pot Pie offers a perfect blend of hearty flavors in a comforting dish.
Recipe 15: Chicken Soup
This recipe transforms chicken breast into a comforting bowl of chicken soup, perfect for any season. Follow the simple steps to create a delicious, hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add chicken pieces to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until chicken is browned on all sides, around 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth, adding thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, covering and simmering for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Add egg noodles and frozen peas to the pot. Cook for an additional 10 minutes or until noodles are tender.
- Remove bay leaf before serving, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Ladle soup into bowls, serving hot. Enjoy this satisfying and flavorful chicken soup as a wholesome meal.
Recipe 16: Chicken Kebabs
Chicken Kebabs offer a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy chicken breast. This dish pairs well with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 large red onion, chopped
- 2 zucchinis, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate Chicken: Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Add chicken, mix thoroughly, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare Vegetables: Chop bell peppers, red onion, and zucchinis. Set aside cherry tomatoes.
- Assemble Kebabs: Skewer marinated chicken, bell peppers, onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes alternately. Ensure even spacing for consistent cooking.
- Grill Kebabs: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Cook kebabs for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Plate kebabs and serve hot. Pair with a side of rice or salad for a complete meal.
Recipe 17: Stuffed Chicken Breast
Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delicious and inventive way to elevate regular chicken into a gourmet dish. This recipe combines tender chicken with savory ingredients for a flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cut a horizontal slit through the thickest part of each chicken breast to create a pocket.
- Combine spinach, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic in a bowl.
- Stuff the mixture into the pockets of each chicken breast.
- Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
- Season the outside of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear each chicken breast for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then serve.
Conclusion
Exploring these 17 easy chicken breast recipes has been a delightful culinary journey. From comforting soups to gourmet stuffed chicken, each recipe showcases the incredible versatility of chicken breast. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests, these recipes offer something for everyone.
I hope you feel inspired to try these recipes and discover new ways to enjoy chicken breast. Happy cooking!