Juicy & Flavorful Chicken Breast Recipes: Foolproof Step-by-Step Guide

Chicken Breast Recipes: Tired of dry, bland chicken breast? With my tested, step-by-step methods, you’ll learn exactly how to cook perfect chicken every time—whether you’re pan-searing, baking, grilling, or slow-cooking. Each recipe includes detailed instructions to guarantee juicy, flavorful results.

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1. Perfect Pan-Seared Chicken Breast

Golden, juicy, and ready in 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Place chicken breasts on a cutting board.
2. Cover with plastic wrap and pound to even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin (this ensures even cooking).
3. Pat completely dry with paper towels (critical for good browning).

Step 2: Season

1. In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Rub seasoning evenly on both sides of chicken.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

1. Heat a heavy skillet (cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat for 2 minutes.
2. Add 1 tbsp olive oil and swirl to coat.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

1. Carefully add chicken to the hot pan. It should sizzle immediately—if not, wait until the pan is hotter.
2. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until the bottom is deep golden brown.

Step 5: Flip & Finish Cooking

1. Use tongs to flip the chicken.
2. Add butter and herbs to the pan.
3. Tilt the pan and baste the chicken with the melted butter for 1 minute.
4. Continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (it will rise to 165°F while resting).

Step 6: Rest & Serve

1. Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest 5-10 minutes (this keeps it juicy).
2. Slice against the grain and serve.

Pro Tip: If the chicken is browning too fast, lower the heat slightly.

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2. Garlic Butter Baked Chicken Breast

Easy, hands-off cooking with incredible flavor

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• 3 tbsp melted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 lemon, sliced (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pound chicken to even thickness (½-inch) and pat dry.

Step 2: Make Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Bake the Chicken

1. Place chicken in a baking dish (or sheet pan with parchment paper).
2. Pour garlic butter mixture over the chicken, coating both sides.
3. Arrange lemon slices on top (optional).
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Step 4: Broil for Crispiness (Optional)

1. Switch oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes to brown the top.

Step 5: Rest & Serve

1. Let chicken rest 5 minutes before slicing.
2. Drizzle with pan juices for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestion: Pair with roasted potatoes and steamed green beans.

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3. Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken Breast

Sweet, tangy, and perfect for summer

Ingredients:

• 2 chicken breasts
• ¼ cup honey
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. In a bowl, whisk honey, mustard, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish and pour marinade over it.
3. Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).

Step 2: Preheat Grill

1. Heat grill to medium-high heat (400°F) and oil the grates.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from marinade (shake off excess).
2. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, basting with extra marinade in the first 5 minutes.
3. Cook until internal temp reaches 160°F.

Step 4: Rest & Serve

1. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

Grill Tip: If using a grill pan indoors, cook the same way on the stovetop.

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Final Thoughts

Now you have three foolproof ways to cook chicken breast perfectly every time! Whether you’re searing, baking, or grilling, these step-by-step recipes guarantee juicy, flavorful results.

Which one will you try first? Let me know in the comments! 🍗🔥

(Want more? Try stuffing with goat cheese & spinach or topping with mango salsa!)