Are you looking for a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This recipe for airline chicken breasts is your answer. It's a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, impressing your family and friends with minimal effort. This dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, making it a staple in our household and soon to be yours! Get ready to discover a new favorite in your quick dinner ideas arsenal.
What is Airline Chicken?
Airline chicken refers to a chicken breast that has been butterflied (sliced horizontally almost all the way through) and then had the bone removed. This clever technique allows for faster cooking time and creates a beautiful, evenly cooked breast that's incredibly juicy. The result? Tender, flavorful chicken that’s perfect for a quick and healthy meal.
Ingredients: (Serves 2-3)
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano), optional
Equipment:
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large skillet or frying pan
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by preparing the chicken breasts. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally almost all the way through, creating a butterflied effect. Be careful not to cut all the way through. This technique allows the chicken to cook more evenly and quickly.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Generously sprinkle this seasoning mix over both sides of the butterflied chicken breasts.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, carefully place the chicken breasts in the hot pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. If using fresh herbs, add them to the pan during the last minute of cooking for added aroma and flavor.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and serve immediately. This easy recipe is perfect with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or your favorite side dish.
Tips for the Best Airline Chicken:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches ensures even browning and cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Rest the chicken: Allowing the chicken to rest helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Get creative with seasonings: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Airline Chicken: Add lemon zest and fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the seasoning mix.
- Garlic Parmesan Airline Chicken: Combine garlic powder, parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning for a savory twist.
- Spicy Airline Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a kick.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 1-2g
This airline chicken recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy meals repertoire. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delightful homemade cooking experience! This recipe easily fits into a variety of diets, making it a versatile choice for your best recipes collection.