Introduction
Chicken is one of the most versatile and beginner-friendly proteins you can cook. Whether you’re just starting your cooking journey or you want a quick family dinner, an easy chicken recipe can save the day. In this post, you’ll learn a foolproof chicken recipe that’s simple, flavorful, and ready in under 40 minutes. We’ll also share helpful tips, variations, and answers to common questions so you can make this dish your own.
Easy Chicken Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
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Prep the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Heat oil: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
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Cook chicken: Place chicken in the skillet and cook for 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
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Add flavor: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken before removing from the pan.
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Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve with rice, roasted veggies, or salad.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Every Time
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Even thickness: Pound the chicken breasts to even thickness for quicker, uniform cooking.
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Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer to avoid dry chicken.
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Resting time: Let chicken rest for 3–5 minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
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Extra flavor: Marinate chicken for 30 minutes in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice before cooking.
Variations to Try
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Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the seasoning.
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Herb Lovers: Swap oregano for thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
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Creamy Version: After cooking, deglaze the pan with ½ cup heavy cream and a splash of chicken broth to make a quick sauce.
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Grilled Option: Instead of pan-searing, grill the chicken for smoky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are juicier and cook beautifully with the same seasoning. Just adjust cooking time slightly.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Place cooked chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
3. Can I freeze this recipe?
Absolutely. Cooked chicken freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
4. What side dishes pair best with this recipe?
Rice, mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad complement this dish perfectly.
5. Is this chicken recipe healthy?
Yes — it’s high in protein, uses minimal oil, and can be served with nutrient-rich sides.
Conclusion
This easy chicken recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious, healthy meal in under 40 minutes. The best part? You can customize it with spices, sauces, and cooking methods to fit your taste.
👉 Ready to elevate your cooking? Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a satisfying homemade meal that’s as simple as it is delicious!