20 Easy Dinner Ideas with Chicken Breast: Simple Weeknight Meals
20 Easy Dinner Ideas with Chicken Breast: Simple Weeknight Meals
When weeknight dinner stress hits, chicken breast comes to the rescue! These easy super ideas transform simple chicken breasts into delicious, family-friendly meals that come together in 30 minutes or less. Whether you’re looking for stovetop dinners, gluten-free options, or just inspiration for tonight’s meal, we’ve got you covered.
Quick Chicken Breast Skillet Dinner
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- Fresh herbs (thyme or parsley)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the chicken by slicing each breast horizontally into thinner cutlets. This ensures quicker, more even cooking.
Step 2: Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 4: Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
Step 5: Add garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes until tomatoes begin to burst.
Step 6: Return chicken to the skillet, spooning the vegetable mixture over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Breast
Even Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to consistent thickness for even cooking. Place between plastic wrap and gently pound with a mallet or heavy pan.
Don’t Overcook: Chicken breast dries out quickly. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Marinate for Flavor: Even 15 minutes in a simple marinade (olive oil, lemon juice, herbs) makes a big difference in flavor and tenderness.
More Easy Dinner Ideas
Garlic Butter Chicken: Sauté chicken in butter with minced garlic, then finish with lemon juice and parsley.
Sheet Pan Chicken: Arrange chicken, potatoes, and vegetables on a single sheet pan for easy cleanup.
Chicken Stir-Fry: Quick-cooking vegetables and a simple sauce make this a 20-minute meal.
Chicken Parmesan: Breaded chicken topped with marinara and melted cheese – a family favorite.
Lemon Herb Chicken: Bright, fresh flavors that work perfectly with rice or pasta.
FAQ Section
Q: How can I tell when chicken breast is fully cooked?
A: Use a meat thermometer – chicken is done at 165°F. Alternatively, the juices should run clear when pierced.
Q: Are these recipes gluten-free?
A: Most are naturally gluten-free! Always check individual ingredients like sauces or spice blends.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken breast?
A: Yes, but thaw completely in the refrigerator first for best results and even cooking.
Q: What sides go well with chicken breast dinners?
A: Steamed vegetables, rice, quinoa, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad are perfect complements.
Quick Chicken Breast Skillet Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the chicken by slicing each breast horizontally into thinner cutlets. This ensures quicker, more even cooking.
- Season both sides of the chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same pan, add onions and bell peppers, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic and cherry tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes until tomatoes begin to burst.
- Return chicken to the skillet, spooning the vegetable mixture over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
