15 Easy Chicken Breast Recipes for Quick and Delicious Meals

Conquer Chicken Night with Easy Chicken Breast Recipes

Looking for quick and flavorful weeknight meals that the whole family will love? Look no further than easy chicken breast recipes! Chicken breasts are a versatile and affordable protein, perfect for whipping up delicious dishes in minutes.

This comprehensive guide unlocks a treasure trove of simple yet satisfying chicken breast recipes, designed to tantalize your taste buds without sacrificing your precious time. From zesty one-pan wonders to creamy slow cooker delights, we’ve got you covered.

1. Lemon Herb Chicken

This classic dish is bursting with fresh flavor. Chicken breasts are baked with a simple combination of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs like rosemary and thyme, resulting in a juicy and flavorful protein perfect for any weeknight meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate chicken breasts in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Serve With: A side of roasted vegetables and a light salad.

Drink With: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea.

2. Honey Garlic Chicken

A sweet and savory glaze made with honey, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger coats the chicken in this delicious recipe. Baked or pan-fried, this chicken is sure to please the whole family.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
3. In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
4. Pour the sauce over the chicken and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.

Serve With: Steamed rice and broccoli.

Drink With: A light beer or a glass of lemonade.

3. Chicken Piccata

Thinly pounded chicken breasts are dredged in flour, pan-fried, and then bathed in a bright and tangy lemon butter sauce with capers for a restaurant-worthy meal made at home in under 30 minutes.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup capers
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Dredge chicken breasts in flour, shaking off excess.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. Bring to a simmer.
4. Return chicken to the skillet, cooking for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Stir in butter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.

Serve With: Angel hair pasta and a side of steamed green beans.

Drink With: A chilled Chardonnay or a sparkling water with lemon.

4. Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish features chicken breasts coated in a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and herbs, baked to golden perfection.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Dip chicken breasts in melted butter, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
4. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Serve With: Mashed potatoes and a green salad.

Drink With: A glass of Pinot Grigio or iced green tea.

5. Balsamic Chicken

Chicken breasts are marinated in a balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and garlic mixture before being pan-fried or baked, resulting in a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with various sides.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add balsamic vinegar and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens.
5. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Serve With: Garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed spinach.

Drink With: A robust red wine like Merlot or an iced herbal tea.

6. Greek Chicken with Tzatziki Sauce

Greek Chicken with Tzatziki Sauce is a refreshing and flavorful dish that brings the taste of the Mediterranean to your table. The chicken is marinated with lemon and herbs, then grilled and served with a creamy, garlicky Tzatziki sauce. It’s perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 cucumber, grated
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken breasts in lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
3. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side, until fully cooked.
4. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, and a pinch of salt to make the Tzatziki sauce.
5. Serve chicken with Tzatziki sauce on the side.

Serve With: A Greek salad and pita bread.

Drink With: A crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or a cold glass of lemonade.

7. Cajun Chicken

Spice things up with this Cajun-inspired dish. Chicken breasts are seasoned with a blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices, then baked, grilled, or pan-fried for a flavorful and satisfying protein.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Rub chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Serve With: Rice and beans, and a side of coleslaw.

Drink With: A cold beer or a spicy Bloody Mary.

8. Chicken Stir-Fry

This versatile dish allows you to get creative with your favorite vegetables and flavorings. Simply marinate chicken breasts in a soy sauce, ginger, and garlic mixture, then stir-fry with your favorite vegetables and a sauce of your choice for a quick and healthy meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts, sliced thin
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic and mixed vegetables, stir-frying for another 5 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch mixture. Stir well and cook until sauce thickens.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, and serve.

Serve With: Steamed rice or noodles.

Drink With: A light beer or jasmine tea.

9. Chicken Caesar Salad

This classic salad features romaine lettuce tossed with a creamy Caesar dressing, parmesan cheese, croutons, and tender grilled or pan-fried chicken breast for a satisfying and flavorful lunch or light dinner.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup croutons
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for grilling

Instructions:

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill or cook in a skillet until fully cooked.
2. Slice chicken and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, and croutons.
4. Top salad with sliced chicken and serve with lemon wedges.

Serve With: Garlic bread.

Drink With: A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.

10. Chicken Fajitas

Chicken Fajitas are a fun and flavorful dish that features seasoned chicken, bell peppers, and onions, all wrapped in warm tortillas. This Tex-Mex favorite is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts, sliced
• 3 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp fajita seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lime, juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Season chicken with fajita seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers and onions, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and stir well.
5. Serve with warm tortillas and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve With: Mexican rice and black beans.

Drink With: A cold margarita or a Mexican soda.

11. Chicken Pot Pie

This hearty and comforting dish features tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy gravy all wrapped up in a flaky crust. Perfect for a cold winter night.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/3 cup flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package pie crusts

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter and cook celery and onion until soft.
3. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add chicken broth and milk, stirring until thickened.
5. Add chicken, peas, and carrots. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour mixture into a pie dish and cover with pie crust. Cut slits in the top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

Serve With: A simple green salad.

Drink With: A glass of Chardonnay or apple cider.

12. Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy and delicious pasta dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. Tender chicken and fresh broccoli are tossed in a rich Alfredo sauce, making it a family favorite that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 lb fettuccine
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, melt butter and cook garlic until fragrant.
3. Add chicken and cook until no longer pink.
4. Add broccoli and cook for 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until sauce thickens.
6. Toss in fettuccine, season with salt and pepper, and serve.

Serve With: Garlic bread.

Drink With: A glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.

13. Chicken Curry

This fragrant and flavorful dish is made with chicken simmered in a curry paste or powder along with vegetables and coconut milk for a warming and satisfying meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, minced
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook onion, garlic, and ginger until soft.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in curry powder and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add coconut milk and chicken broth, simmering for 20 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve.

Serve With: Basmati rice and naan bread.

Drink With: A cold beer or mango lassi.

14. Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Ground chicken is stir-fried with vegetables and a flavorful sauce, then served in lettuce wraps with your favorite toppings like chopped peanuts, water chestnuts, and hoisin sauce.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup diced water chestnuts
• 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Lettuce leaves

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook garlic until fragrant.
2. Add ground chicken and cook until no longer pink.
3. Stir in water chestnuts, bell pepper, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce.
4. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.
5. Serve chicken mixture in lettuce leaves.

Serve With: A side of jasmine rice.

Drink With: A cold iced tea or a light beer.

15. Chicken Noodle Soup

This classic comfort food is made with a simple broth, tender chicken, egg noodles, and vegetables. Perfect for a cold or rainy day.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups egg noodles
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Cook onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Add egg noodles and cook until tender.
5. Stir in shredded chicken, season with salt and pepper, and serve.

Serve With: A side of crusty bread.

Drink With: A hot cup of tea or a glass of apple cider.

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