This recipe for juicy stove top chicken breasts is a meal-time winner! With tender chicken cooked to perfection and a burst of flavor in every bite, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just season, cook, and you’re ready to enjoy. Pair it with some veggies, and you’ve got a tasty dinner that feels like a treat! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe. They’re lean and cook quickly. If you have bone-in chicken, just increase the cooking time. For a different flavor, try using thighs which are juicier.
Olive Oil: This is perfect for searing the chicken, giving it a nice golden crust. If you’re out of olive oil, vegetable oil or canola oil can work as substitutes. For a unique flavor, sesame oil is also an option, but use it sparingly.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano create a tasty blend. If you want to change things up, smoked paprika adds a different twist. You can also use fresh herbs instead of dried; just remember that fresh herbs are stronger, so adjust the amount accordingly.
Chicken Broth: It’s optional, but I like adding it for extra moisture and flavor. If you don’t have broth, even water will do. If you need a low-sodium option, consider using a homemade broth or diluting store-bought broth with water.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Breasts Are Tender and Juicy?
Tenderizing the chicken is key to making sure it’s juicy and cooks evenly. Here’s how you can do it right:
- Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Aim for about 1 inch thick.
- This helps break down the muscle fibers, which leads to a more tender chicken when cooked.
- After cooking, remember to let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each slice flavorful and moist.
How to Make Juicy Stove Top Chicken Breasts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional for extra moisture)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking. In total, it takes around 30 minutes from start to finish, including resting time. This means you can have a delicious, juicy chicken dinner ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Tenderizing the Chicken:
Start by tenderizing your chicken breasts. Take each piece and place it between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken until it’s about 1 inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
2. Mixing the Spice Blend:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix it well until everything is blended into a nice spice mixture.
3. Spicing Up the Chicken:
Rub the spice blend all over both sides of each chicken breast. Make sure to cover them evenly so every bite is packed with flavor!
4. Cooking the Chicken:
Now, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken breasts into the skillet.
5. Browning the Chicken:
Cook the chicken without moving it for about 5-7 minutes. You want it to get a nice golden-brown color. Check that it’s ready by trying to lift it gently; if it releases easily, it’s time to flip.
6. Flipping and Adding Moisture:
Carefully flip the chicken breasts over. Reduce the heat to medium and, if you’re using it, pour the chicken broth into the skillet. This adds extra moisture and flavor!
7. Covering and Finishing Cooking:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until it’s fully cooked. You can check the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
8. Resting the Chicken:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to settle, keeping your chicken nice and juicy.
9. Serving:
After resting, slice the chicken into pieces and serve warm. You can garnish with fresh herbs if you’d like to add a nice touch. Enjoy your deliciously juicy stove top chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw them first! The best way to defrost frozen chicken is to place it in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, you can also submerge the chicken in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for 1-2 hours, changing the water every 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
You can substitute olive oil with other cooking oils such as canola oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil. If you prefer a more robust flavor, use melted butter or ghee for a delicious twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Breasts?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it for a minute at a time or warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli during the cooking process. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure the veggies are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
