Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes every weeknight? Look no further! Crispy pan chicken is a quick and easy solution to your dinner dilemma. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy families.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering crispy pan chicken recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic flavors like garlic butter and honey mustard, to international twists like teriyaki and Cajun, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes will guide you through each step to ensure a perfectly cooked dish every time.
So go ahead and get cracking (pun intended!) with some of our favorite crispy pan chicken recipes. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!
Garlic Butter Pan-Seared Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and the crispy texture of pan-searing. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and butter until well combined.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Add the olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl to coat. Add the chicken thighs and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the garlic butter mixture to the pan. Stir until melted and bubbly.
6. Serve the chicken thighs with the garlic butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Skillet Chicken Breast
Brighten up your weeknight dinner routine with this zesty and flavorful skillet chicken breast recipe. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, a sprinkle of herbs, and a hint of garlic make for a moist and aromatic dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and brush with the lemon mixture on both sides.
4. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Honey Mustard Pan-Fried Chicken
This sweet and tangy recipe yields crispy and juicy chicken breasts with a flavorful honey mustard glaze. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and paprika.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over the chicken.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Transform ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece with this easy and flavorful recipe. Crispy Parmesan crust adds a satisfying crunch to juicy, tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 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 flour, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Pan Chicken with Peppers
Add a kick of flavor to your meal with this simple and spicy pan chicken recipe, packed with peppers and Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the onion and bell peppers to the pan. Cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Seared Chicken with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this rich and savory dish that combines tender chicken breast, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy evening in!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Pan-sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Set aside.
3. In same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until tender (about 5 minutes).
4. Pour in heavy cream, mustard, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
5. Serve chicken breast with mushroom cream sauce spooned over top. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Skillet
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this simple and delicious Balsamic Glazed Chicken Skillet recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, and garlic; cook until chicken is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in balsamic glaze; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Veggie Stir-Fry
This recipe is a perfect solution for a busy night when you want to cook something delicious and healthy without much fuss. With just one pan to clean, this stir-fry comes together in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked chicken back into the pan. Stir in soy sauce and honey.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Roasted Chicken with Garlic and Rosemary
This classic recipe yields a tender and flavorful chicken dish, infused with the pungency of garlic and the earthiness of rosemary. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs), rinsed and patted dry
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic and rosemary.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat.
6. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, until browned.
7. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Skillet with Pineapple
This sweet and savory Teriyaki Chicken Skillet with Pineapple is a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful dish on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp Teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Teriyaki sauce, pineapple, bell peppers, and garlic. Stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Fried Chicken Piccata
A simple yet elegant dish that combines the tender flavors of chicken with a rich and buttery sauce, Pan-Fried Chicken Piccata is a crowd-pleaser. This recipe yields a deliciously crispy exterior and juicy interior, all in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season chicken with flour mixture, shaking off excess.
2. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
5. If using wine, add it to the skillet and stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Serve chicken with sauce spooned over the top and garnished with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken with Potatoes
Transform your weeknight dinner into a flavorful fiesta with this simple and satisfying recipe. Smoky paprika adds a deep, smoky depth to the chicken and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place the potatoes in a single layer. Drizzle with chicken broth and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Toss gently.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Place the chicken on top of the potatoes.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Quick Pan Chicken Fajitas
Quick Pan Chicken Fajitas: A flavorful and speedy meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin 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 chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers and onions to the same pan. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, and chili powder to the pan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables and spices.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the fajitas by placing the chicken and vegetable mixture onto the tortillas. Add your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Chicken with Lemon Caper Sauce
Pan-Seared Chicken with Lemon Caper Sauce: A Bright and Zesty Twist on Classic Chicken
This recipe combines the rich flavors of capers, lemon, garlic, and chicken to create a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. While the chicken is cooking, combine lemon juice, capers, garlic, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place on a plate. Pour the lemon-caper sauce over the top and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Dijon Skillet Chicken
This recipe combines the richness of chicken with the sweetness of maple syrup and the tanginess of Dijon mustard, all cooked to perfection in a single skillet.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and Dijon mustard.
5. Pour the maple-Dijon mixture over the chicken; add chicken broth and stir to combine.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and convenient one-pan dish that combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the richness of chicken, vegetables, and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rice, mixed vegetables, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat with the rice mixture.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Fried Chicken with Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor, this recipe combines tender pan-fried chicken with a rich and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season chicken with flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pan-fry chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Serve pan-fried chicken with creamy sun-dried tomato sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek-Style Lemon Oregano Chicken
Brighten up your dinner plate with this refreshing and flavorful Greek-inspired chicken dish, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion. With the zesty combination of lemon, oregano, and garlic, you’ll be transported to the sun-kissed Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Discard remaining marinade.
5. Bake chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh oregano leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pan-Seared Chicken with Spinach and Artichokes
This flavorful dish combines the tender juiciness of pan-seared chicken with the creamy richness of spinach and artichoke hearts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated pan and sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, wilt spinach in a separate pan with a little olive oil.
5. Add chopped artichoke hearts to the spinach and stir to combine.
6. Serve chicken breasts topped with the spinach-artichoke mixture and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Asian Ginger Soy Chicken Skillet
A flavorful and aromatic skillet dish that combines the savory flavors of ginger, soy sauce, and chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 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. In the same skillet, add the grated ginger and minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the soy sauce, honey, and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Cook until cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
9. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with these 20 crispy pan chicken recipes! From classic garlic butter and parmesan crusted to spicy cajun and smoky paprika, there’s something for everyone. Try pan-seared chicken thighs with mushroom cream sauce or lemon herb skillet chicken breast. Maybe you’ll prefer the sweet and tangy combination of honey mustard pan-fried chicken or the bold flavors of teriyaki chicken skillet with pineapple. Whichever recipe catches your eye, rest assured that each dish is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
