Imagine a mouthwatering, perfectly seasoned chicken dish that takes less than 30 minutes to prepare – sounds too good to be true? Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight cooking with this incredibly simple yet irresistibly delicious chicken recipe that will have your family begging for seconds! Whether you're a busy professional, a tired parent, or just someone who wants a hassle-free meal, this quick and easy chicken recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner solution.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken breasts from refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels to ensure even seasoning and cooking.
- In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create a seasoning blend.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, gently pressing the spices into the meat.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the pan is evenly coated and hot before adding chicken.
- Carefully place chicken breasts into the hot skillet, leaving space between each piece to ensure proper cooking and browning.
- Cook chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on the first side, until a golden-brown crust forms and the edges start to turn opaque.
- Flip chicken breasts using tongs and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes on the other side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps maintain moisture.
- Slice chicken against the grain and serve hot with your choice of side dishes.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is cooked to a safe 165°F (74°C)
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to lock in maximum juiciness
- Don't overcrowd the skillet – give each chicken breast enough space to brown properly
- For extra flavor, try experimenting with different herb and spice combinations
- If you prefer a lighter seasoning, use less garlic powder and adjust salt and pepper to taste
- For a healthier option, you can use a non-stick pan with minimal oil
- Slice the chicken against the grain to ensure tender, easy-to-eat pieces
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 165kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 31g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 85mg
