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Sliced chicken breast plated with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a light sauce, ready to be served.

chicken breast recipe

Alexandra
Who doesn’t love a juicy, flavorful chicken breast recipe that’s easy to make and versatile? Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight meal
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 23 minutes
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American, Mediterranean
Servings 4 servings
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil or substitute with melted butter for a richer flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika adds color and mild smokiness
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon lemon zest optional, for a fresh, bright flavor
  • Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika for deeper, smoky flavor
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce adds umami
  • 1 teaspoon honey balances flavors, especially when pan-searing

For Serving (Optional):

  • Fresh lemon wedges to squeeze over the chicken
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:

  • No olive oil? Swap olive oil for avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer a deeper taste.
  • Want more spice? For extra heat sprinkle in a bit of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Herb lover? Fresh rosemary or thyme works beautifully for added aroma.
  • Cooking for meal prep? Double the batch and store leftovers for easy lunches!

Instructions
 

1: Prep the Chicken

  • Pat dry the chicken breasts with paper towels—this helps the seasoning stick better.
  • Place the chicken on a cutting board and, if needed, pound it to an even thickness (about ¾ inch) using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Flattening the chicken helps it cook evenly and avoids dry or overcooked spots.

2: Season the Chicken

  • In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and rub the seasoning blend evenly on both sides. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.
  • 3: Choose Your Cooking Method

🔹 Stovetop (Pan-Seared):

  • Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
  • Place the chicken in the pan and sear for 5–6 minutes without moving it. Flip and cook for another 5–6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Remove from heat, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

🔹 Oven-Baked:

  • Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
  • Place the chicken on the tray and bake for 18–22 minutes, depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before cutting to lock in juices.

🔹 Air Fryer:

  • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  • Place the chicken in a single layer and cook for 8–10 minutes per side, flipping halfway through.
  • Rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
  • Calories: 280
  • Protein: 35g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 400mg