I know you’re looking for simple, delicious ways to cook chicken breast, and I’m right there with you! Today, I’m sharing two incredibly easy chicken breast recipes that will make your weeknights so much better. Whether you like it tender and juicy or perfectly baked, these recipes are quick to make and full of flavor. I promise, you’ll want to add both to your regular cooking rotation.
Cooking at home should be fun and stress-free. With these clear instructions and helpful tips, you’ll be making perfectly cooked chicken in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Jump to Recipe:
Easy Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast Recipe
This method gives you incredibly tender and juicy chicken breast, every single time. It’s so simple, you won’t believe how good it tastes for such little effort.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Tender Chicken
- Pound It Thin: Flattening the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook evenly and prevents dry spots.
- Don’t Skip the Rest: Letting the cooked chicken sit for a few minutes allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it extra moist.
- Season Well: A good blend of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika really brings out the chicken’s natural flavor.
What You Need for Melt In Your Mouth Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
⏱️ Time: 25 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2 servings
How to Make Melt In Your Mouth Chicken
Step 1: Prep the Chicken Breast
Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness, about 3/4 inch. This helps them cook faster and more uniformly.
Step 2: Season and Sear
Remove the plastic wrap. Season both sides of the chicken generously with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
Step 3: Finish Cooking and Rest
Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let the chicken rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
📝 Final Note
This chicken is fantastic served with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Easy Oven Baked Chicken Breast Recipe
Baking chicken breast in the oven is one of the easiest ways to get a healthy, protein-packed meal on the table. This recipe ensures your chicken is moist and flavorful without much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Baked Chicken
- High Heat Baking: Cooking at a slightly higher temperature helps to seal in juices, keeping the chicken tender.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to avoid dry chicken is to cook it until it reaches exactly 165°F (74°C).
- Lemon Brightness: A touch of lemon juice in the marinade adds a lovely fresh flavor that cuts through the richness.
What You Need for Baked Chicken Breast
- 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or your favorite dried herbs)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh lemon slices for serving
⏱️ Time: 30 minutes🍽️ Yields: 2-3 servings
How to Make Oven Baked Chicken
Step 1: Prep and Marinade Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat them completely. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes, or up to 30 minutes for more flavor.
Step 2: Bake Until Done
Place the chicken breasts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 18-22 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken, or until an internal thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Step 3: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps to keep the chicken moist. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
📝 Final Note
You can easily change the dried herbs in this recipe to suit your taste. Try Italian seasoning, dried thyme, or a pinch of chili powder for a different kick.
