Chicken Breast: How to Cook It Perfectly in 15 Minutes

Introduction

Looking for a quick, juicy, and flavorful chicken dinner that’s ready in just 15 minutes? Say hello to this Perfect Chicken Breast Recipe! Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves delicious food without the fuss, this recipe is your new best friend.

Chicken breast is a kitchen staple for a reason—it’s lean, versatile, and packed with protein. But let’s be honest, cooking it perfectly can be tricky. Dry, overcooked chicken? No thanks! That’s why this recipe is a game-changer. With a few simple tricks, you’ll get tender, juicy chicken every single time.

Fun fact: Did you know chicken breast is one of the most Googled recipes worldwide? It’s no surprise—it’s quick, affordable, and pairs well with almost anything. If you loved our Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs, you’ll adore this recipe for its simplicity and bold flavors.

So, grab your skillet, and let’s make magic happen in just 15 minutes!

What is Chicken Breast?

Ever wondered why chicken breast is such a superstar in the kitchen? It’s like the Swiss Army knife of proteins—simple, reliable, and always ready to save the day. But why is it called “breast”? Well, it’s the pectoral muscle of the chicken, and yes, it’s as tender as it sounds.

As the saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this recipe might just be the key. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Ready to whip up something amazing? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Breast Recipe

1. Juicy and Flavorful: Say goodbye to dry chicken! This recipe ensures tender, juicy chicken breast every time, thanks to a simple yet effective cooking method.
2. Budget-Friendly: Chicken breast is affordable and widely available, making it a cost-effective option for delicious home-cooked meals.
3. Versatile Toppings: Customize your chicken with your favorite seasonings, sauces, or sides. From garlic butter to zesty lemon herb, the possibilities are endless!

If you enjoyed our Brisket Sandwich Recipe, you’ll love how this dish delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Ready to try it? Let’s dive in!

How to Make Chicken Breast

Quick Overview

This recipe is all about simplicity and speed. With just a few ingredients and 15 minutes, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken breast that’s juicy, flavorful, and ready to impress.

Key Ingredients for Chicken Breast

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat the Pan: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes.
4. Add Liquid: Pour in chicken broth to deglaze the pan and keep the chicken moist. Cover and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the pan, let it rest for 2-3 minutes, then slice and garnish with fresh parsley.

What to Serve Chicken Breast With

• Sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh garden salad.
• Drinks: A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon.
• Sauces: Drizzle with chimichurri, BBQ sauce, or a creamy mushroom sauce.

Top Tips for Perfecting Chicken Breast

1. Even Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
2. Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer—chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
3. Rest the Chicken: Let it rest before slicing to lock in the juices.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.

Recipe Schema Markup

• Preparation Time: PT5M
• Cooking Time: PT10M
• Total Time: PT15M
• Type of Recipe: Main Course
• Cuisine: American
• Keywords: quick, easy, healthy, family-friendly, weeknight dinner
• Equipment: Skillet (1, 10-inch), Tongs (1), Meat Thermometer (1)
• Recipe Yield: 2 servings
• Calories: 250 per serving

Recipe Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Pros

• Quick and easy to make
• Budget-friendly
• Versatile and customizable

Cons

• Requires careful timing to avoid overcooking

Recipe Equipment

• Skillet (1, 10-inch): For searing and cooking the chicken.
• Tongs (1): For flipping the chicken safely.
• Meat Thermometer (1): To ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
• Cutting Board (1): For prepping and slicing the chicken.
• Chef’s Knife (1): For trimming and slicing the chicken breast.

Recipe Instructions

1. Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side.
4. Add chicken broth, cover, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Rest, slice, and serve.

Print

Chicken Breast

Ever wondered why chicken breast is such a superstar in the kitchen? It’s like the Swiss Army knife of proteins—simple, reliable, and always ready to save the day. But why is it called “breast”? Well, it’s the pectoral muscle of the chicken, and yes, it’s as tender as it sounds.

As the saying goes, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this recipe might just be the key. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Ready to whip up something amazing? Let’s get cooking!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword family-friendly, healthy meal, quick, easy, weeknight dinner

Prep Time 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time 10 minutes minutes

Total Time 15 minutes minutes

Servings 2 servings

Calories 250kcal

Equipment

• 1 Skillet (10-inch) For searing and cooking the chicken
• 1 Tongs For flipping the chicken safely
• 1 Meat Thermometer To ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C)
• 1 Cutting board For prepping and slicing the chicken
• 1 Chef’s Knife For trimming and slicing the chicken breast

Ingredients

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

• Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  
• Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side.
  
• Add chicken broth, cover, and cook for 1-2 minutes.
  
• Rest, slice, and serve.

Notes

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Breast Recipe

1. Juicy and Flavorful: Say goodbye to dry chicken! This recipe ensures tender, juicy chicken breast every time, thanks to a simple yet effective cooking method.
2. Budget-Friendly: Chicken breast is affordable and widely available, making it a cost-effective option for delicious home-cooked meals.
3. Versatile Toppings: Customize your chicken with your favorite seasonings, sauces, or sides. From garlic butter to zesty lemon herb, the possibilities are endless!

If you enjoyed our Brisket Sandwich Recipe, you’ll love how this dish delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Ready to try it? Let’s dive in!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I cook chicken breast perfectly in 15 minutes?

Great question! Start by seasoning your chicken breast with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet with olive oil, sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, then add a splash of chicken broth and cover for 1-2 minutes. Let it rest before slicing—it’s that easy!

2. What temperature should chicken breast be cooked to?

Chicken breast is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check—it’s a game-changer for juicy, safe-to-eat chicken every time!

3. Can I freeze cooked chicken breast?

Absolutely! Cooked chicken breast freezes beautifully. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat it in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep it moist and flavorful.

4. What sides go well with chicken breast?

Chicken breast is super versatile! Pair it with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes for a cozy meal.
• Steamed veggies for a healthy touch.
• A fresh garden salad for a light, refreshing option.
  And don’t forget a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon!

5. How do I keep chicken breast from drying out?

The secret is not overcooking it! Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) and let it rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water while cooking also helps lock in moisture.

6. Can I use frozen chicken breast for this recipe?

Yes, but thaw it first for even cooking. Place it in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking frozen chicken directly can lead to uneven results.

7. What seasonings work best for chicken breast?

The sky’s the limit! Try:

• Garlic powder and paprika for a smoky kick.
• Lemon pepper for a zesty twist.
• Italian herbs for a Mediterranean vibe.
  Experiment and find your favorite combo!