Easy Chicken Dinner Recipe: A Delicious Meal for Beginners
Introduction
Looking for a quick and easy chicken dinner recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen? You’re in the right place! Chicken is one of the most versatile proteins — it’s budget-friendly, cooks quickly, and pairs well with countless flavors. In this recipe, we’ll walk you through a simple, flavorful chicken dinner that even beginners can master. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just craving comfort food after a long day, this dish is sure to impress.
Easy Chicken Dinner Recipe
Ingredients
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or oregano/basil mix)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
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1 small onion, sliced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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½ cup chicken broth
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¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Prep the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
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Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
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Make the sauce: In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
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Simmer: Pour in chicken broth and return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and absorb the flavors.
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Finish: Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top, cover for 2 minutes until melted, and garnish with fresh parsley.
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Serve: Pair with rice, pasta, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to get a nice golden sear.
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Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer — chicken is safe at 165°F (75°C).
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Flavor boost: Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice for brightness.
Variations
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Creamy Chicken Dinner: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream before simmering for a rich, creamy sauce.
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Spicy Kick: Add red chili flakes or sliced jalapeños for heat.
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One-Pan Meal: Toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Use mozzarella or cheddar instead of Parmesan for a melty topping.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust cooking time slightly.
Q2: Can I meal-prep this recipe?
Absolutely. Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Q3: What’s the best side dish for this chicken dinner?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, pasta, or a light salad.
Q4: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes. Skip the Parmesan or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
SEO-Rich Section: Why This Easy Chicken Dinner Recipe Works for Beginners
When it comes to easy chicken dinner recipes for beginners, simplicity is key. This recipe requires minimal ingredients, uses one pan, and is ready in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for home cooks who want a satisfying, healthy, and delicious dinner without stress. By learning this recipe, beginners build confidence in seasoning, searing, and simmering — the foundation of countless chicken dishes.
Conclusion
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. With this easy chicken dinner recipe, you’ll have a flavorful, family-friendly meal on the table in no time. Try it tonight, and you might just add it to your weekly rotation!