Description
This Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast Recipe guarantees juicy, tender chicken breasts every time using simple ingredients and an easy cooking method. Perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion, this healthy, flavorful dish highlights lean protein with minimal effort and maximum taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Optional Variations
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, thyme, or oregano (herb infusion)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika (spicy kick)
- 2 tablespoons cream or coconut milk (creamy version)
- Almond flour or coconut flour (for gluten-free coating)
- Yogurt and lemon juice marinade (for extra tenderness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch to ensure uniform cooking and prevent dryness, achieving the tender texture desired.
- Season Generously: Rub both sides of each chicken breast with olive oil. Then evenly sprinkle salt, pepper, and garlic powder on both sides. Finish by drizzling fresh lemon juice over the meat to start tenderizing and brighten flavors.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of olive oil. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms, sealing in juices and flavor.
- Add Moisture and Cover: Pour chicken broth or water into the pan just enough to cover the bottom. Immediately cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, reduce heat to low, and gently simmer for about 8-10 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes covered with foil. This step allows the juices to redistribute, locking in moisture for the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Notes
- Pounding chicken breasts ensures quick, even cooking and prevents dryness at the edges.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to avoid overcooking.
- Rest the chicken after cooking to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Cooking on low heat with a covered pan allows gentle steaming for tenderness.
- Fresh lemon juice helps soften chicken fibers naturally with subtle acidity.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop (searing and simmering) with optional baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0.5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: juicy chicken breast, tender chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, healthy chicken, gluten free chicken