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Delicious and Easy Thin Chicken Breast Recipes

Delicious and Easy Thin Chicken Breast Recipes

Delicious and Easy Thin Chicken Breast Recipes offer quick, healthy, and flavorful meals using thinly sliced chicken breasts. These recipes feature simple ingredients like fresh herbs, garlic, lemon, and olive oil to create juicy, tender chicken dishes perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a light yet satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Thin Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless, thinly sliced
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
  • Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons fresh
  • Fresh Herbs (parsley, thyme, or rosemary): 2 tablespoons, chopped
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon
  • Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Optional Spices (paprika, cumin, chili flakes): 1/4 teaspoon each, to taste

Variations (Optional Add-ins)

  • Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon (for Asian-Inspired)
  • Ginger: 1 teaspoon grated (for Asian-Inspired)
  • Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon (for Asian-Inspired)
  • Olives: 1/4 cup chopped (for Mediterranean Style)
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/4 cup chopped (for Mediterranean Style)
  • Oregano: 1 teaspoon dried or fresh (for Mediterranean Style)
  • Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (for Spicy Kick)
  • Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (for Spicy Kick)
  • Parmesan Cheese: 2 tablespoons grated (for Herb-Crusted)
  • Capers: 2 tablespoons (for Lemon and Capers variation)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken. Pat the thin chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and your preferred optional spices to build a flavorful base.
  2. Step 2: Heat the Pan. Warm olive oil in a nonstick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, ensuring a perfect sear on the chicken.
  3. Step 3: Cook the Chicken. Place the seasoned chicken in the hot pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the surface is golden brown.
  4. Step 4: Add Aromatics and Finish. In the final minute of cooking, add the minced garlic and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken; toss in the fresh herbs before removing the pan from the heat to add freshness and brightness.
  5. Step 5: Rest and Serve. Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes to retain its juices, then slice or serve whole with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Even Thickness: Pound chicken breasts gently to an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking and tenderness.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to avoid steaming and to ensure a crisp, golden sear.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature to avoid undercooking or overcooking the chicken.
  • Rest Before Slicing: Rest cooked chicken to lock in juices and enhance flavor.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh herbs and lemon juice when possible for more vibrant flavor compared to dried or bottled alternatives.

Nutrition

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