When it comes to cooking chicken breasts, many of us get stuck in a rut. But what if you could take your boring old chicken breasts and turn them into a flavor explosion? That’s where scored chicken breasts come in – by cutting a decorative pattern into the meat before cooking, you can add texture, visual appeal, and a whole lot of deliciousness to your dish. In this article, we’re going to share 18 mouthwatering scored chicken breast recipes that will take your mealtime to the next level.
From classic flavors like garlic butter and lemon herb to bold options like spicy Cajun and coconut curry, there’s something for every taste bud on this list. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a culinary pro, these recipes are sure to inspire your next dinner party or family gathering. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
Garlic Butter Scored Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the tender juiciness of scored chicken breast. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter.
3. Score the chicken breasts by making shallow cuts parallel to the surface of each breast.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each scored breast, making sure to get it into the crevices.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Scored Chicken Breast
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing and flavorful chicken breast recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of zesty lemon and aromatic herbs creates a delightful harmony that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Using a sharp knife or score maker, create 4-6 shallow cuts on each breast, about 1/4 inch deep.
6. Brush the lemon herb mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts, making sure to get some into the scored lines.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Scored Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy glaze, perfectly balanced to complement the tender flesh of scored chicken breasts. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, olive oil, garlic, and paprika.
3. Score the chicken breasts in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut too deeply.
4. Brush the glaze evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Scored Chicken Breast
Add a spicy kick to your chicken breast with this simple and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Score each chicken breast in a crisscross pattern, making sure not to cut too deeply.
4. Brush the Cajun spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Scored Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this crispy and flavorful Parmesan crusted scored chicken breast recipe! With a simple blend of parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, you’ll be treated to a satisfying main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and thyme.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the Parmesan mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Scored Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy recipe that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Score each breast three times, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
5. Brush the balsamic mixture evenly over each scored breast.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Scored Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory Teriyaki Scored Chicken Breast recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressive party dish. With its caramelized glaze and tender texture, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Score the chicken breasts in a crisscross pattern, making sure not to cut too deep.
4. Brush the teriyaki glaze all over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Scored Chicken Breast with Olives and Feta
Elevate your chicken dish with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean. This simple recipe combines the savory taste of feta cheese, the brininess of olives, and the juiciness of chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Score the chicken breasts in a diagonal pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the tops of the chicken breasts with the olive oil mixture.
6. Top each breast with sliced olives and crumbled feta cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Scored Chicken Breast with Smoky Rub
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of BBQ sauce with the savory depth of a smoky rub. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Smoky Rub (see below)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Smoky Rub:
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Smoky Rub ingredients.
3. Score each chicken breast with a sharp knife, making 2-3 diagonal cuts on each side.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with Smoky Rub.
5. Grill or bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. During last 5 minutes of cooking, brush with BBQ sauce.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Stuffed Scored Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and visually appealing recipe! Tender chicken breast is stuffed with a rich pesto filling and scored to create a beautiful presentation.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut a horizontal slit in each chicken breast to create a pocket.
3. Stuff each breast with 2-3 tbsp of pesto, spreading evenly.
4. Score the top of each breast in a crisscross pattern.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle olive oil on the scored surface.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tips:
– Make sure to not overstuff the chicken breasts, as this can cause them to burst open during cooking.
– Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Maple Dijon Scored Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe, featuring a tangy maple glaze and a crispy dijon crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Score the chicken breasts by making 4-6 shallow cuts on each breast, being careful not to cut too deeply.
4. Brush the maple glaze all over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Scored Chicken Breast with Panko Coating
Crispy Scored Chicken Breast with Panko Coating Recipe
Summary:
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet impressive recipe that yields crispy, scored chicken breasts coated with crunchy panko breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Prepare the chicken breasts by making diagonal score marks on each breast using a sharp knife or poultry shears.
4. Dip each scored chicken breast into the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each breast.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Scored Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and tender recipe that combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the richness of olive oil. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking. Score the top of each breast in a diamond pattern.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side, then transfer to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Scored Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of rosemary and garlic creates a savory and herbaceous flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped rosemary and minced garlic.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Using a sharp knife, score the chicken breasts in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
5. Spread the rosemary-garlic mixture evenly over each scored breast, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asian-Style Scored Chicken Breast with Soy Ginger Glaze
This recipe combines the savory flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar to create a sweet and sticky glaze for chicken breasts. The scored skin adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skin-on chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.
3. Score the skin of each chicken breast in a diamond pattern, being careful not to cut too deeply.
4. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the soy glaze all over the scored skin.
5. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the glaze.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Curry Scored Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic Coconut Curry Scored Chicken Breast recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of tender chicken, creamy coconut curry sauce, and crispy scallions will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Score each chicken breast with a sharp knife, making shallow diagonal cuts.
3. In a small bowl, mix together coconut cream, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the scored chicken breasts.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
7. Garnish with sliced scallions and fresh cilantro leaves (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Scored Chicken Breast Caprese with Mozzarella and Tomato
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and visually appealing dish. Scored chicken breast, fresh mozzarella, and ripe tomatoes come together to create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Score the chicken breasts by making shallow diagonal cuts about 1 inch apart.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, assemble the Caprese by placing a tomato slice on each chicken breast, followed by a mozzarella slice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Scored Chicken Breast with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Scored Chicken Breast with Mushroom Cream Sauce Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and savory recipe that combines tender chicken breast with a creamy mushroom sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
3. Score the chicken breasts by making shallow cuts about 1/4 inch deep on both sides of each breast.
4. Brush the mixture from step 2 evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the chicken is baking, melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
8. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
9. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
10. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken for about 5 minutes.
11. Serve the chicken breasts with the mushroom cream sauce spooned over the top. If desired, sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of scored chicken breast with these 18 juicy and flavorful recipes. From classic garlic butter to international-inspired teriyaki, there’s something for every taste bud. Spice up your meals with spicy Cajun or smoky BBQ, or opt for a more refined Mediterranean flair with olives and feta. Stuff your chicken with pesto or top it with crispy panko breadcrumbs – the possibilities are endless! Whether you’re in the mood for a tangy balsamic glaze or a creamy mushroom sauce, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
