Easy Chicken Breast Recipes (under 30 minutes)

Easy Chicken Breast Recipes (under 30 minutes)

When time is of the essence, preparing a healthy and delicious meal can seem challenging. However, chicken breast remains a go-to protein choice due to its versatility, nutritional value, and quick cooking time. Whether you're seeking a quick dinner or a satisfying meal for the family, these easy chicken breast recipes—all of which can be prepared in under 30 minutes—will have you in and out of the kitchen in no time. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these recipes are sure to become regular favorites in your cooking rotation.

Why Choose Chicken Breast?

Chicken breast is a lean protein that provides a range of benefits. It's high in protein, low in fat, and easy to incorporate into almost any dish. Whether grilled, baked, sautéed, or pan-seared, chicken breast absorbs flavors exceptionally well and can be paired with countless sides, sauces, and seasonings. It's no wonder that chicken breast is a top choice for quick and nutritious meals.

1. Pan-Seared Chicken Breast with Garlic Butter

A perfect balance of simplicity and flavor, this pan-seared chicken breast is cooked to golden perfection, complemented by a rich garlic butter sauce.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Combine and Serve: Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the garlic butter over the chicken breasts. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve with your favorite vegetables or rice.

This recipe delivers a rich, savory dish that requires minimal effort yet leaves a lasting impression.

2. Chicken Breast Stir-Fry with Vegetables

For a fast and healthy meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients, try this chicken stir-fry. The combination of fresh vegetables and tender chicken makes this a balanced, satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
2. Stir-Fry the Veggies: In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion, bell pepper, and broccoli for 4-5 minutes until tender-crisp.
3. Combine: Return the chicken to the pan. Add the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds if desired, and serve the stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles.

This chicken stir-fry is an excellent option when you want a wholesome meal with minimal prep and cook time.

3. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breast

Grilling chicken breast gives it a smoky, charred flavor that pairs beautifully with bright, citrusy lemon and herbs. This recipe is ideal for summer nights or any time you crave a light, flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 10 minutes (or up to 30 minutes) in the refrigerator.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
3. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

This grilled chicken recipe is light yet bursting with flavor, making it a perfect addition to any meal plan.

4. One-Pan Baked Chicken Breasts with Vegetables

For a truly effortless meal, this one-pan baked chicken breast recipe offers a hands-off approach. Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup baby carrots
• 1 cup diced potatoes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Place the chicken breasts in the center of a baking sheet. Surround with baby carrots and diced potatoes. Drizzle olive oil over everything, and sprinkle with garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the vegetables are tender.
4. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest before serving with the roasted vegetables.

This recipe is a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a wholesome meal without spending much time in the kitchen.

5. Chicken Breast with Avocado Salsa

For a fresh and light dinner, serve chicken breast with a flavorful avocado salsa. This dish combines the richness of chicken with the creamy texture of avocado for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 small tomato, diced
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of olive oil. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
2. Prepare the Salsa: While the chicken is cooking, combine the diced avocado, tomato, red onion, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, top each breast with a generous scoop of avocado salsa. Serve with a side of greens or whole grains.

This recipe offers a bright, refreshing twist on traditional chicken dishes, perfect for warmer weather or whenever you want a quick, healthy option.

6. Chicken Breast with Honey Mustard Sauce

A sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken breasts. This recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
2. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt. Once the chicken is cooked, drizzle the honey mustard sauce over the chicken and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Serve: Serve with steamed vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

This honey mustard chicken is an easy-to-make yet flavorful dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the week.

Chicken breast is a versatile and nutritious option for quick meals, and these recipes showcase the wide range of possibilities in under 30 minutes. Whether you prefer a rich garlic butter sauce, a fresh avocado salsa, or a simple grilled option, these dishes are sure to please the palate and fit into your busy schedule. Embrace the endless flavor combinations chicken breast offers, and enjoy a variety of tasty, satisfying meals that can be prepared in no time.