Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner that won't keep you chained to the kitchen all evening? Then look no further! This chicken split breast recipe is your answer. It's packed with flavor, cooks quickly, and is incredibly versatile – perfect for a weeknight meal or a simple yet impressive dinner party dish. Get ready to enjoy a homemade meal that tastes like it came from a gourmet restaurant, but without the gourmet price tag or complicated steps!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken split breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear for about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are nicely browned. Don't overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet. Add the lemon slices. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. The pan juices make a fantastic sauce – spoon it over the chicken before serving. Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Split Breast:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the temperature and prevent proper browning. Cook in batches if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest: Letting the chicken rest allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful breast.
Variations:
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the spice rub.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the spice rub.
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice rub for a kick.
- Creamy Mushroom Chicken: Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet during the simmering stage for a rich and flavorful dish.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 2-5g
This easy chicken split breast recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. It's quick, delicious, and adaptable to suit any taste preference. Enjoy!