Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes every week? Look no further! We’ve got a collection of 20 mouthwatering, quick, and easy chicken breast recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort food to international-inspired flavors, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite fast and easy chicken breast recipes that can be ready in no time. Whether you’re a busy professional or a mom on-the-go, these recipes will help you whip up a delicious meal without sacrificing flavor or quality. So grab your apron, get cooking, and let’s dive into the world of scrumptious chicken breasts!
Garlic Butter Chicken Breast with Lemon
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and the brightness of lemon. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick and Easy Baked Chicken Breast
Get a delicious and healthy meal on the table with this simple recipe for baked chicken breast. This classic dish is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Breast
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this sweet and tangy honey mustard recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and garlic powder until smooth.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with the honey mustard mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Enjoy your juicy and flavorful Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Breast!
One-Pan Chicken Breast with Vegetables
This recipe is a flavorful and convenient meal that’s ready in just over an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a quick dinner solution.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium-sized bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the sliced bell peppers, onion, garlic, and zucchini. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until vegetables are tender.
5. Return the chicken breasts to the pan and sprinkle with thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
5-Ingredient Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast
Elevate your meal with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese and crispy crust on juicy chicken breast. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sriracha Lime Chicken Breast
This Asian-inspired recipe combines the spicy kick of sriracha with the brightness of lime and the tenderness of chicken breast, making for a flavorful and refreshing main dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce, lime juice, garlic, and salt.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the Sriracha-Lime mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Chicken Breast Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
A quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe that combines the tenderness of chicken breast with the savory richness of soy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the garlic and bell peppers to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and add the cooked chicken back into the skillet.
6. Cook for a final minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Chicken Breast Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that combines tender chicken breast with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the onion, mushrooms, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Pepper Chicken Breast in Foil Packets
A bright and citrusy twist on classic chicken breast, this recipe infuses tender meat with the warmth of black pepper and the zesty zip of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 sheets of aluminum foil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, black pepper, and garlic.
3. Place a chicken breast in the center of each foil sheet.
4. Brush the lemon mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each breast.
6. Fold the foil over the chicken, sealing the packet tightly.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fast Chicken Breast Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Quickly satisfy your taco cravings with this flavorful recipe that combines juicy chicken breast, crunchy veggies, and creamy avocado salsa. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 taco shells
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 red onion, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Bake chicken for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare avocado salsa by combining diced avocado, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro (if using).
6. Assemble tacos by slicing chicken and placing it in taco shells with avocado salsa.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Glazed Chicken Breast in Air Fryer
Moist and flavorful chicken breasts get a sweet and tangy boost with this easy air fryer recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these BBQ glazed chicken breasts are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken breasts in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each breast.
5. Brush the BBQ glaze all over the chicken breasts.
6. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Simple Herb-Roasted Chicken Breast
A flavorful and aromatic roasted chicken breast recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.
4. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the herb mixture evenly over both chicken breasts.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Chicken Breast Piccata
A classic Italian dish gets a speedy twist with this easy-to-make chicken breast piccata recipe. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a flavorful and tender main course that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dip each breast in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic; cook 1 minute.
4. Add chicken breasts; cook 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from skillet; set aside.
6. If using wine and broth, add to skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
7. Return chicken to skillet; spoon some sauce over each breast.
8. Cook an additional 2-3 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Easy Chicken Breast Fajitas
A flavorful and quick recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep. This dish is packed with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
• 1/2 cup sliced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 small flour tortillas
• Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and onions. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble the fajitas by placing the chicken mixture onto the tortillas and adding your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Breast with Pineapple
This Asian-inspired dish combines the flavors of juicy chicken breast, sweet pineapple, and savory teriyaki sauce for a deliciously easy meal. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced into wedges
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve chicken with pineapple wedges and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fast Chicken Breast and Broccoli Alfredo
Prepare a creamy and flavorful dinner with this quick and easy recipe. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight supper.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken breasts over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and let rest.
4. In the same skillet, add broccoli florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine pasta, Alfredo sauce, and chicken breasts in a large serving dish.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Chicken Breast with Garlic Spinach
This recipe combines the richness of pan-seared chicken breast with the savory flavor of garlic spinach, making for a delicious and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this tasty dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
3. Add the olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl it around to coat the bottom.
4. Sear the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. In a separate pan, heat the garlic over medium heat for 1 minute.
6. Add the spinach to the pan with the garlic and stir until wilted.
7. Serve the chicken breasts with the garlic spinach spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Chicken Breast Quesadillas
Get ready to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal with this simple recipe that combines juicy chicken breast with melted cheese and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In the skillet, cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the chicken; stir well.
4. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with half of the cheese (about 1/4 cup).
5. Spoon cooked chicken on half of the tortilla, then fold the other half over to enclose.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Easy Chicken Breast Quesadillas!
15-Minute Cajun Chicken Breast
Looking for a flavorful and fast meal option? This 15-Minute Cajun Chicken Breast recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a deliciously spicy dish ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Cajun seasoning and salt.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the seasoning mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5 minutes on each side or until browned.
5. Remove from heat and add sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until onions are translucent.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Simple Chicken Breast Salad with Balsamic Dressing
A refreshing and flavorful salad that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch. This recipe combines juicy chicken breast, crisp greens, and tangy balsamic dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and parsley.
5. Slice cooked chicken breast into strips.
6. Drizzle balsamic vinegar and olive oil over the salad; toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to shake up your weeknight dinner routine with these 20 delicious and easy chicken breast recipes! From Garlic Butter Chicken Breast with Lemon to Teriyaki Chicken Breast with Pineapple, there’s something for everyone. These quick and easy dishes are perfect for busy nights when you need a flavorful meal in no time. Try one-pan wonders, crispy tacos, or savory stir-fries – all made possible with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a healthy twist, these recipes have got you covered.
