Juicy and Tender Chicken Breast Recipe

Juicy and Tender Chicken Breast Recipe

This recipe is a perfect guide to cooking juicy and flavorful chicken breasts with ease. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this versatile dish delivers delicious results every time.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 peoples

Calories 200 kcal

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Meat thermometer
• Tongs
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Ingredients

  

Chicken

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional

Cooking

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

 

• Prep chicken by blotting dry and seasoning with spices.
• Heat oil in skillet, sear chicken until golden.
• Deglaze pan with chicken broth and lemon juice.
• Simmer covered until cooked through (165°F).
• Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Sweetness: Adjust sugar levels to taste for marinades.
• Thawing: Properly thaw chicken for even cooking.
• Resting: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking.

 

Twists and Variations

 

1. Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken: Add spinach, feta, and sun-dried tomatoes.
2. Chicken Marsala: Sauté mushrooms, deglaze with Marsala wine.
3. Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for a marinade.
4. Lemon Herb Chicken: Infuse with fresh herbs and lemon juice.
5. Buffalo Chicken: Toss in hot sauce and butter for a spicy kick.

 

Tips for Perfecting

 

1. Pound Chicken: For even cooking, ensure consistent thickness.
2. Marinate: For added flavor, marinate before cooking.
3. Preheat Pan: A hot skillet ensures a proper sear.
4. Monitor Temperature: Cook to 165°F for perfect doneness.
5. Resting Time: Let chicken rest for juicy, tender results.

Starting

Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re diving into a classic recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal-prepping for the week. Chicken breast, known for its lean protein and versatility, is a staple in many households. But it’s also a piece of meat that can easily become dry or bland if not cooked correctly. In this post, we’ll guide you through a method to achieve perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken breasts every time. Let’s get started!

Preparation Time and Total Duration

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Duration: 35 minutes

This quick and easy recipe is ideal for those who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

To make perfectly tender and juicy chicken breasts, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil Check here how to choose your olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken Breasts:

Begin by gently blotting the chicken breasts with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial because it helps the seasoning stick and prevents excess moisture from causing the chicken to steam rather than sear.

2. Season the Chicken:

In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Evenly coat both sides of the chicken breasts with the seasoning mix, pressing it in gently to ensure it adheres well.

3. Heat the Oil:

Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking.

4. Sear the Chicken:

Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and have a nice crust. Avoid moving the chicken around too much to ensure a good sear.

5. Add Chicken Broth and Lemon Juice:

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the chicken broth and lemon juice to the skillet. This will help deglaze the pan and create a flavorful sauce.

6. Simmer the Chicken:

Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken simmer for 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken will continue to cook in the residual heat, so be sure not to overcook.

7. Rest and Serve:

Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it remains juicy and tender.

Serving Suggestions

This chicken breast recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions to complete your meal:

• Roasted Vegetables: Serve the chicken alongside a medley of roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini.
• Rice or Quinoa: For a filling and healthy option, serve with a side of rice or quinoa.
• Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the chicken nicely.
• Pasta: Toss the chicken with your favorite pasta and a light tomato or cream sauce for a hearty meal.

Storage Recommendations

If you have leftovers or want to prepare the chicken in advance, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store cooked chicken breasts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional information for a serving of this chicken breast recipe (based on a 4-ounce serving):

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 0g

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Notes

• Even Thickness: For even cooking, try to ensure that the chicken breasts are of similar thickness. You can use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness if needed.
• Marinating: For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts in the seasoning mix and olive oil for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

History and Culture

Chicken breast is a staple in many cultures around the world, prized for its lean protein and versatility. In Mediterranean cuisine, it is often grilled or baked with simple seasonings, while in American cuisine, it’s commonly used in dishes like chicken parmesan or chicken salad. The modern popularity of chicken breast can be traced back to its promotion as a healthy, low-fat protein source in the late 20th century, making it a favorite for health-conscious eaters.

Variations and Modern Twists

1. Mediterranean Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Elevate your chicken dish with a Mediterranean twist by stuffing the breasts with a mixture of feta cheese, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. To make:

• Ingredients for Stuffing: 1 cup fresh spinach (chopped), 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese, 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil.
• Instructions: Cut a pocket into each chicken breast and stuff with the mixture. Secure the opening with toothpicks or kitchen twine. Follow the original recipe’s cooking instructions, but adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure the stuffing is heated through.

2. Chicken Marsala

For a rich, restaurant-style dish, try Chicken Marsala. This variation features a savory Marsala wine sauce:

• Ingredients for Marsala Sauce: 1/2 cup Marsala wine, 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon butter, 1 cup sliced mushrooms.
• Instructions: After searing the chicken breasts, remove them from the skillet and add mushrooms. Sauté until browned. Deglaze the pan with Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits. Add chicken broth and butter, and simmer until the sauce thickens. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for a few more minutes.

3. Asian-Inspired Chicken Breasts

Add an Asian flair with soy sauce, ginger, and sesame seeds:

• Ingredients for Asian Marinade: 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 1 tablespoon grated ginger, 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar.
• Instructions: Marinate the chicken breasts in the Asian marinade for at least 30 minutes. Cook as directed in the original recipe, but use a combination of high heat and quick cooking to achieve a caramelized, slightly sweet exterior.

4. Lemon Herb Chicken

For a zesty, herb-infused variation, try Lemon Herb Chicken:

• Ingredients for Herb Marinade: 1/4 cup olive oil, juice of 1 lemon, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme, 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
• Instructions: Marinate the chicken breasts in the Lemon Herb Marinade for at least 30 minutes. Cook as directed, allowing the fresh herbs and lemon to infuse the chicken with vibrant flavor.

5. Spicy Buffalo Chicken

For a spicy twist, make Spicy Buffalo Chicken:

• Ingredients for Buffalo Sauce: 1/4 cup hot sauce, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 tablespoon vinegar.
• Instructions: After searing the chicken breasts, toss them in a mixture of hot sauce, melted butter, and vinegar. Serve with a side of celery and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Tips for Perfecting

1. Selecting the Best Chicken Breasts: The quality of your chicken breasts can significantly impact the final dish. When shopping for chicken, look for breasts that are firm and plump with a fresh, pinkish color. Avoid any with an off smell or slimy texture. Opting for organic or free-range chicken can also enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your meal.
2. Proper Thawing: If you’re using frozen chicken breasts, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking. The safest method is to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can use the defrost function on your microwave, but be sure to cook the chicken immediately after thawing to prevent bacterial growth.
3. Pounding for Even Cooking: To achieve even cooking and ensure the chicken breasts cook at the same rate, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper before pounding to avoid any mess.
4. Marinade for Extra Flavor: To infuse the chicken breasts with additional flavor, try marinating them before cooking. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and your favorite spices in a bowl, and let the chicken marinate in the mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. This step can infuse the chicken with additional flavor and moisture.
5. Preheating the Pan: Make sure the skillet is thoroughly preheated before adding the chicken. A hot pan helps to achieve a nice sear on the chicken, which locks in the juices and adds a flavorful crust. Test the heat by adding a drop of water to the pan; if it sizzles and evaporates quickly, the pan is ready.
6. Searing and Browning: When placing the chicken in the skillet, avoid overcrowding. If necessary, cook in batches to prevent steaming. Let the chicken sear undisturbed for the recommended time to develop a golden-brown crust. Avoid frequently moving the chicken to allow it to develop a nice sear.
7. Monitoring Doneness: Check the internal temperature of the chicken breasts with a meat thermometer. The USDA recommends cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature while staying juicy and tender. For an accurate reading, insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast.
8. Resting the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken breasts rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, which helps to keep the chicken moist. Resting also helps to avoid juices running out when you cut into the chicken.

With these detailed instructions and tips, you’re all set to prepare chicken breasts that are both flavorful and perfectly cooked. This versatile dish is sure to impress at any meal, bringing a touch of culinary excellence to your table. Enjoy preparing and savoring this delicious chicken with family and friends!

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