Skillet Chicken Breast Recipes: Delicious and Easy Meals
Chicken breasts are a weeknight dinner staple. They’re lean, versatile, and readily available. However, they can sometimes be bland or dry if not cooked properly. This is where the skillet comes in! Cooking chicken breasts in a skillet allows for beautiful searing, quick cooking times, and the ability to create flavorful pan sauces. In this post, we’ll explore a variety of skillet chicken breast recipes, from simple and classic to more adventurous and globally-inspired. We’ll cover tips for achieving perfectly cooked chicken every time, and provide detailed, step-by-step instructions for each recipe.
## Why Skillet Chicken Breasts Are a Winner
* **Speed:** Skillet cooking is fast! You can have a delicious chicken breast dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
* **Flavor:** Searing the chicken in a hot skillet creates a flavorful crust that locks in juices. The pan drippings can then be used to create delicious sauces.
* **Versatility:** Chicken breasts pair well with almost any flavor profile. You can easily adapt skillet chicken recipes to suit your taste preferences.
* **Easy Cleanup:** One-pan meals mean less cleanup! Many of these recipes can be made entirely in a single skillet.
## Essential Tips for Perfect Skillet Chicken Breasts
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s cover some essential tips for achieving perfectly cooked skillet chicken breasts:
* **Pound the Chicken:** This is crucial for even cooking. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to an even thickness (about ½ inch). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and prevents the edges from drying out before the center is cooked through.
* **Season Generously:** Don’t be shy with the seasoning! Salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to experiment with other herbs, spices, and dry rubs.
* **Use a Hot Skillet:** A hot skillet is key to achieving a good sear. Make sure the skillet is preheated over medium-high heat before adding the chicken.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the skillet and prevent the chicken from searing properly.
* **Don’t Move the Chicken Too Soon:** Once you’ve placed the chicken in the skillet, resist the urge to move it around. Allow it to sear for several minutes before flipping. This will allow a nice crust to form.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** The best way to ensure that your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. Chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
* **Rest the Chicken:** After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
## Recipe 1: Lemon Herb Skillet Chicken
This recipe is a classic for a reason. The bright lemon flavor and fragrant herbs complement the chicken perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 1 lemon, thinly sliced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
* 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
2. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set aside.
6. Add the sliced lemon and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
7. Stir in the thyme and rosemary.
8. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the lemon-herb mixture over the top.
9. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with roasted vegetables, rice, or a salad.
## Recipe 2: Balsamic Glazed Skillet Chicken
This recipe features a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze that adds a touch of elegance to the chicken.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
* 2 tablespoons honey
* 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
2. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
7. Bring the glaze to a simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
8. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and coat with the balsamic glaze.
9. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a salad.
## Recipe 3: Creamy Mushroom Skillet Chicken
This recipe is a comforting and flavorful option, perfect for a cozy night in.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
* 1 shallot, minced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* ½ cup chicken broth
* ½ cup heavy cream
* 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
2. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set aside.
6. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced shallot to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and browned.
7. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
8. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
9. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
10. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the mushroom sauce over the top.
11. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
## Recipe 4: Blackened Skillet Chicken
This recipe delivers a spicy kick with its blackened seasoning. Perfect for those who like a bit of heat.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 tablespoons blackened seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**For Homemade Blackened Seasoning:**
* 1 tablespoon paprika
* 1 tablespoon garlic powder
* 1 tablespoon onion powder
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
* ½ teaspoon black pepper
* ½ teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
2. In a small bowl, combine all the blackened seasoning ingredients (if making your own).
3. Season the chicken breasts generously with the blackened seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until blackened and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Be careful not to burn the seasoning.
6. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve with rice, beans, and your favorite Southwestern-inspired sides.
## Recipe 5: Skillet Chicken Fajitas
Bring the fiesta to your kitchen with these easy and delicious skillet chicken fajitas.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
* 1 onion, sliced
* 1 packet fajita seasoning
* Tortillas, for serving
* Toppings: salsa, sour cream, guacamole, shredded cheese, etc.
**Instructions:**
1. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken strips to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the sliced bell pepper and onion to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in the fajita seasoning and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
## Recipe 6: Caprese Skillet Chicken
This recipe combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with juicy skillet chicken.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 4 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
* 1 large tomato, sliced
* Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
* Balsamic glaze (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
2. Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Top each chicken breast with sliced mozzarella and tomato.
6. Cover the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the mozzarella is melted.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of balsamic glaze (optional). Serve immediately.
## Recipe 7: Honey Garlic Skillet Chicken
This recipe features a sticky, sweet, and savory honey garlic sauce that is incredibly addictive.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* ¼ cup honey
* 2 tablespoons soy sauce
* 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
* 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
* Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
* Green onions, for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set aside.
6. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
7. Stir in the honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil (if using).
8. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
9. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and coat with the honey garlic sauce.
10. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions (if using). Serve with rice or noodles.
## Recipe 8: Skillet Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
This is a complete one-pan meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
* 1 zucchini, chopped
* 1 red onion, chopped
* 1 cup broccoli florets
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly browned.
6. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set aside.
7. Add the chopped bell peppers, zucchini, red onion, and broccoli florets to the skillet.
8. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
9. Toss the vegetables to coat them with the seasoning.
10. Place the chicken breasts on top of the vegetables.
11. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
12. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve directly from the skillet.
## Recipe 9: Pesto Skillet Chicken
The bright and herbaceous flavor of pesto pairs beautifully with chicken.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* ¼ cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
* Cherry tomatoes, halved
* Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini), optional
**Instructions:**
1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and spread pesto over the top of each breast.
6. Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet around the chicken.
7. If using mozzarella balls, scatter them around the chicken.
8. Cover the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the tomatoes are slightly softened and the mozzarella is melted (if using).
9. Serve immediately. Great with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
## Recipe 10: Skillet Chicken Marsala
A classic Italian dish made easy in a skillet.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 tablespoon butter
* 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
* 1/4 cup dry Marsala wine
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional)
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness (about ½ inch).
2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
4. Heat the olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set aside.
7. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until softened and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Pour in the Marsala wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
9. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
10. If using, stir in the heavy cream for a richer sauce.
11. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon the sauce over them.
12. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
13. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice.
## Variations and Adaptations
The beauty of skillet chicken breast recipes is their adaptability. Here are some ideas for variations and adaptations:
* **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to any of these recipes for extra heat.
* **Add Vegetables:** Toss in your favorite vegetables, such as asparagus, green beans, or bell peppers, to create a complete meal.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, basil, or chives, to create unique flavor combinations.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to dredge the chicken in recipes that call for flour.
* **Use Different Types of Chicken:** While these recipes are designed for chicken breasts, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Marinades:** Marinate the chicken breasts for 30 minutes to a few hours before cooking to add even more flavor. Try using a lemon-herb marinade, a balsamic marinade, or a spicy marinade.
## Serving Suggestions
Skillet chicken breasts are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
* **Roasted Vegetables:** Roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and Brussels sprouts, are a healthy and delicious side dish.
* **Mashed Potatoes:** Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with skillet chicken.
* **Rice:** Rice, such as white rice, brown rice, or wild rice, is a simple and satisfying side dish.
* **Pasta:** Pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne, is a great way to soak up the delicious pan sauces.
* **Salad:** A fresh salad is a light and refreshing side dish that complements skillet chicken perfectly.
* **Bread:** Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious pan sauces.
## Storing Leftovers
Leftover skillet chicken breasts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
## Conclusion
Skillet chicken breast recipes are a quick, easy, and delicious way to get dinner on the table. With a little practice, you can master the art of cooking perfectly seared and flavorful chicken breasts every time. So, grab your skillet, experiment with these recipes, and discover your new favorite weeknight meal! Happy cooking!