One Chicken Breast Recipe: The Ultimate Weeknight Wonder

Are you staring into your refrigerator, a single chicken breast the only protein staring back? Don’t despair! That lone chicken breast is a blank canvas, ready to be transformed into a delicious and satisfying meal. Forget boring, dry chicken. This recipe unlocks the secret to juicy, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch. We’re talking restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort. Get ready to ditch the takeout menu and become a chicken breast master!

Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t just another chicken breast recipe. It’s designed for maximum flavor and tenderness, even with just one breast. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Pounding for Even Cooking: Pounding the chicken breast to an even thickness is crucial. It ensures the chicken cooks evenly and quickly, preventing the edges from drying out while the center catches up.
• Flavor-Packed Marinade: The marinade isn’t just an afterthought. It’s a carefully crafted blend of ingredients that infuses the chicken with flavor from the inside out. The acidity helps to tenderize the chicken, while the herbs and spices add depth and complexity.
• High-Heat Sear: A quick sear in a hot pan creates a beautiful golden-brown crust. This not only adds flavor but also helps to seal in the juices, keeping the chicken moist and tender.
• Resting Period: Don’t skip the resting period! Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
• Versatility: This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve the chicken breast as is, slice it over a salad, or use it in a variety of other dishes.

Ingredients

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 6-8 ounces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or white wine vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of your favorite herbs)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for finishing)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a zip-top bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps it cook evenly.
2. Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the pounded chicken breast in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. Longer marinating times will result in a more flavorful and tender chicken breast.
4. Heat the Pan: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. The pan should be hot enough that a drop of water sizzles and evaporates quickly.
5. Sear the Chicken: Remove the chicken breast from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken in the hot skillet and sear for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
6. Optional Butter Finish: For extra richness, add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet during the last minute of cooking. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the chicken breast.
7. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken breast from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
8. Serve: Slice the chicken breast against the grain and serve immediately. Enjoy it as is, over a salad, or in your favorite dish.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the marinade before adding the chicken and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
• Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to substitute them for the dried herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs.
• Get Creative with the Marinade: Experiment with different flavors in the marinade. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, a squeeze of lime juice for a citrusy twist, or a splash of soy sauce for umami.
• Pan-Fry Alternatives: While pan-frying is quick and easy, you can also bake or grill the chicken breast. Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. Grilling: Grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Storage Instructions

Leftover cooked chicken breast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it, pan-fry it, or bake it in the oven. Be careful not to overcook it when reheating, as it can dry out easily.

You can also freeze cooked chicken breast for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cooked chicken breast can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ

• Can I use a frozen chicken breast? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before marinating.
• Can I marinate the chicken overnight? Yes, you can marinate the chicken overnight, but be aware that the lemon juice in the marinade can start to break down the chicken fibers, so it might be slightly softer.
• What can I serve with this chicken breast? This chicken breast is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, quinoa, or a salad.
• Can I make this recipe with more than one chicken breast? Absolutely! Simply adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a simple, delicious, and versatile chicken breast recipe that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can transform a single chicken breast into a culinary masterpiece. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and seasonings to create your own signature chicken breast recipe. Happy cooking!