Katie Couric’s Simple & Delicious Chicken Dinner: A Weeknight Winner!

Are you searching for a quick, easy, and flavorful chicken recipe that will become a staple in your weeknight rotation? Look no further! This recipe, inspired by Katie Couric’s approach to simple and delicious cooking, delivers tender, juicy chicken packed with flavor, all with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy families, beginner cooks, or anyone who wants a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe emphasizes fresh ingredients, simple techniques, and bold flavors. The result is a chicken dish that’s both healthy and incredibly tasty.

## Why This Recipe Works

* **Minimal Prep Time:** This recipe requires very little chopping and preparation, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
* **Simple Ingredients:** You likely already have many of the ingredients in your pantry and refrigerator.
* **Versatile:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your taste preferences by changing the herbs and spices.
* **Healthy:** Chicken is a lean protein source, and this recipe emphasizes healthy cooking methods.
* **Delicious:** The combination of flavors creates a truly satisfying and memorable meal.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Chicken:** 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons, extra virgin
* **Lemon:** 1 large lemon, juiced and zested
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves, minced
* **Fresh Herbs:** 2 tablespoons, chopped (such as rosemary, thyme, parsley, or a combination)
* **Salt:** 1 teaspoon, or to taste
* **Black Pepper:** ½ teaspoon, or to taste
* **Optional:** 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
* **Optional:** 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for added tang and flavor)

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Cutting board**
* **Knife**
* **Lemon zester**
* **Lemon juicer**
* **Small bowl**
* **Large skillet (oven-safe preferred, but not required)**
* **Meat thermometer**

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create Katie Couric’s inspired chicken dinner:

**Step 1: Prepare the Chicken**

* Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them to brown properly.
* Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable plastic bag.
* Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch). This ensures even cooking.

**Step 2: Make the Marinade**

* In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped herbs, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). If using Dijon mustard, add it to the bowl as well.
* Taste the marinade and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking.

**Step 3: Marinate the Chicken**

* Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
* Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each breast evenly.
* Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
* Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.

**Step 4: Cook the Chicken**

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
* If using an oven-safe skillet, heat it over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can use a regular skillet and transfer the chicken to a baking dish later.
* Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade.
* Carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. This step adds flavor and color to the chicken.
* If using a regular skillet, transfer the chicken to a baking dish. If using an oven-safe skillet, simply place the skillet in the preheated oven.
* Bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

**Step 5: Rest and Serve**

* Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
* Slice the chicken breasts against the grain and serve immediately.

## Tips and Variations

* **Pounding the Chicken:** Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is crucial for even cooking. It also tenderizes the chicken.
* **Marinating Time:** While 30 minutes is the minimum marinating time, allowing the chicken to marinate for a few hours will result in a more flavorful dish. Don’t marinate for longer than 4 hours, as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken.
* **Skillet Choice:** Using an oven-safe skillet makes this recipe even easier, as you can sear the chicken on the stovetop and then transfer it directly to the oven. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear the chicken in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a baking dish.
* **Herbs and Spices:** Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, oregano, and paprika all work well with chicken. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
* **Vegetables:** You can add vegetables to the skillet or baking dish along with the chicken. Some good choices include broccoli, asparagus, bell peppers, and onions.
* **Wine:** Add a splash of white wine to the skillet after searing the chicken for extra flavor. Allow the wine to reduce slightly before transferring the skillet to the oven.
* **Lemon Butter Sauce:** For an extra rich and flavorful sauce, melt a tablespoon of butter in the skillet after removing the chicken. Whisk in a tablespoon of lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the sauce over the chicken before serving.
* **Dairy-Free Option:** To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit the Dijon mustard or ensure you use a dairy-free version. The recipe is naturally dairy-free without the optional mustard.

## Serving Suggestions

This chicken dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes, are a healthy and delicious side dish.
* **Quinoa or Rice:** Quinoa or rice is a simple and satisfying side dish that complements the chicken perfectly.
* **Salad:** A fresh green salad or a Caprese salad is a light and refreshing side dish.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with chicken.
* **Garlic Bread:** Crusty garlic bread is a delicious and comforting side dish.
* **Pasta:** Serve over your favorite pasta with a light sauce for a complete meal.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* **Serving Size:** 1 chicken breast
* **Calories:** 250-300
* **Protein:** 40-45g
* **Fat:** 8-12g
* **Carbohydrates:** 2-4g

*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Make Ahead Instructions

This recipe is great for meal prepping! You can prepare the chicken in advance in several ways:

* **Marinate the Chicken:** You can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
* **Prepare the Marinade:** You can prepare the marinade a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
* **Cook the Chicken:** You can cook the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

## Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven, microwave, or skillet. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to keep the chicken moist.

## Troubleshooting

* **Chicken is Dry:** Make sure you don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and remove the chicken from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F (74°C). Letting the chicken rest before slicing also helps to keep it moist. Pounding the chicken thin ensures it cooks faster and prevents drying out the outer edges.
* **Chicken is Bland:** If the chicken is bland, try marinating it for a longer period of time or adding more herbs and spices to the marinade. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of salt and pepper after cooking.
* **Skillet is Smoking:** If your skillet is smoking, it means the heat is too high. Reduce the heat slightly and add a tablespoon of oil to the skillet.

## Katie Couric’s Cooking Philosophy

This recipe aligns with Katie Couric’s emphasis on accessible, flavorful, and healthy cooking. Couric is known for her down-to-earth approach to food and her focus on simple, wholesome ingredients. Her recipes often prioritize ease of preparation and maximum flavor, making them perfect for busy individuals and families.

## Adaptations and Personalization

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to adapt it to your own taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level. You can also add other spices like chili powder or cumin for a different flavor profile.
* **Sweetness:** Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.
* **Citrus:** Experiment with different citrus fruits like orange or grapefruit for a unique flavor.
* **Vegetables:** Incorporate your favorite vegetables into the recipe. Cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and mushrooms all work well.
* **Cheese:** Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken before baking for a cheesy twist.

## Other Chicken Recipes to Try

If you enjoyed this recipe, here are a few other easy and delicious chicken recipes to try:

* **Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken:** A classic and flavorful whole roasted chicken with lemon and herbs.
* **Garlic Parmesan Chicken:** Chicken breasts coated in a garlic Parmesan crust.
* **Honey Garlic Chicken:** A sweet and savory chicken dish with a honey garlic glaze.
* **Chicken Fajitas:** Sizzling chicken strips with bell peppers and onions, served with tortillas and your favorite toppings.
* **Chicken Stir-Fry:** A quick and easy stir-fry with chicken and vegetables in a flavorful sauce.

## Final Thoughts

This Katie Couric inspired chicken dinner is a winner for busy weeknights. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and can be adapted to your liking. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! This simple and delicious recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Enjoy this effortless and healthy way to enjoy a flavorful chicken dinner, inspired by the simple and satisfying cooking style of Katie Couric! It’s a fantastic way to bring the family together around a wholesome and delicious meal, even on the busiest of evenings. Happy cooking!

This recipe offers a delicious and approachable way to enjoy chicken, mirroring Katie Couric’s focus on accessible and flavorful meals. The simplicity of the ingredients and straightforward instructions make it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and side dishes to create a customized version that suits your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal to impress guests, this recipe is sure to deliver a satisfying and memorable culinary experience. Embrace the joy of cooking with simple, high-quality ingredients and create a meal that brings people together around the table.