When it comes to quick and delicious meals, few options are as reliable as boneless skinless chicken breasts. Whether you’re a busy professional or a growing family, these versatile birds can be cooked in countless ways to satisfy any appetite. In fact, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of what boneless skinless chicken has to offer.
From classic comfort food dishes like Chicken Parmesan and Chicken Alfredo, to global-inspired flavors like Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry and Chicken Tikka Masala, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And the best part? Most can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these scrumptious recipes, exploring everything from flavorful marinades and sauces to creative cooking methods and presentation ideas. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or a show-stopping meal to impress your friends and family, we’ve got you covered.
Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet
Satisfy your cravings with this simple and flavorful skillet dish that combines the richness of garlic butter, tender chicken, and sautéed vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the garlic, bell peppers, and onion to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot over your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilling game with this bright and citrusy Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ. This flavorful dish combines the zest of fresh lemons, the pungency of herbs, and the smokiness of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish; brush with the lemon-herb mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy recipe that combines the flavors of parmesan, garlic, and tender chicken. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with garlic. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and combined with cream sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
6. Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat with cream sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and spicy recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. A sticky glaze of honey, soy sauce, and hot sauce gives this dish a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the glaze.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
Get ready for a flavorful and savory stir-fry dish that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the juiciness of chicken. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Add the mixed bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the teriyaki sauce. Stir everything together to coat the chicken evenly.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying serving of fettuccine pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 6 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken breasts with butter until cooked through; set aside.
3. Add garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli with the Alfredo sauce; season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Chicken Fajitas
Elevate your fajita game with this easy and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. By baking the chicken and vegetables, you’ll achieve tender, juicy results without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 small flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the bowl; toss to coat with spice mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; arrange chicken and vegetables in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil; bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble fajitas by slicing chicken and vegetables, then serving with warmed tortillas.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Caesar Salad Wraps
Elevate your lunch game with these crispy chicken-filled wraps, packed with the flavors of a traditional Caesar salad. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 4 large tortilla wraps
– 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
– 1 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
2. In a separate pan, warm tortilla wraps for 30 seconds on each side.
3. Assemble wraps by spreading Caesar dressing on the bottom half, followed by chopped lettuce, croutons, and cooked chicken.
4. Top with mozzarella cheese and fold wraps in half.
5. Serve immediately and garnish with parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Piccata with Capers
This Italian-inspired dish is a staple of fine dining, yet surprisingly simple to make at home. Thinly pounded chicken breasts are dredged in flour, sautéed in butter, and served with a tangy caper sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge each breast in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic; sauté 1 minute.
4. Add chicken breasts; cook 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from skillet; set aside.
6. If using white wine and lemon juice, add to skillet; simmer 2 minutes to reduce sauce.
7. Stir in capers; season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve chicken breasts with caper sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Rice Casserole
This classic casserole is a staple for a reason – it’s easy to make, flavorful, and satisfying. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, savory rice, and rich sauce in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken in butter until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cooked rice, frozen vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Stir until combined.
4. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Cover and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Chicken Tikka Masala
A popular Indian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, creamy tomato sauce, and aromatic spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people and is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, garam masala, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), cinnamon, and cardamom. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and salt. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly. Stir in any remaining marinade from the chicken.
5. Serve chicken with the creamy tomato sauce spooned over the top, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Stuffed Chicken Breast with Spinach and Cheese
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the flavors of spinach, cheese, and juicy chicken. This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cheese, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Close the incision and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Enchilada Bake
This recipe combines the flavors of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy tortillas to create a satisfying and easy-to-make dinner. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange a layer of tortillas, followed by a layer of chicken, then a layer of enchilada sauce and cheese. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this simple and delicious recipe that combines grilled chicken, crispy tacos, and creamy avocado salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for grilling
– Avocado Salsa ingredients (see below)
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour marinade over chicken breasts and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing into thin strips.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, Avocado Salsa, and your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff
This Russian-inspired dish combines tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich sauce to create a comforting meal that’s sure to please. Serve over egg noodles or rice for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
2. Add butter, mushrooms, and garlic to the same skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over mushrooms and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually stir in beef broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and cook until coated with sauce, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Chicken Pad Thai
A classic Thai dish, Chicken Pad Thai combines stir-fried chicken, rice noodles, and a sweet and sour sauce with peanuts and bean sprouts. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed bean sprouts
– 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
– 2 tablespoons Pad Thai sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in Pad Thai sauce, bean sprouts, and peanuts. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Serve over cooked noodles. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
These sweet potatoes are filled with a delicious blend of tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy cheese, making for the perfect comfort food meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large sweet potatoes
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in BBQ sauce and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Stuff each sweet potato with cooked chicken, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
6. Return stuffed sweet potatoes to oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the warmth of Indian cuisine with this rich and flavorful chicken curry recipe, made creamy with coconut milk. Serve over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry
This recipe is a classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the flavors of chicken, vegetables, and savory sauces. It’s an easy and healthy option for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and garlic to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Marsala with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines tender chicken breasts with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, served alongside fluffy garlic mashed potatoes. A perfect comfort food for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Marsala wine
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken breasts in butter until browned on both sides. Remove from heat.
3. Add Marsala wine, garlic, and parsley to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, garlic, heavy cream or half-and-half, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve chicken breasts with mushroom sauce spooned overtop, accompanied by a side of garlic mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time: approximately 25-30 minutes for the chicken and potatoes.
Summary
Indulge in the flavors of the world with these 20 scrumptious boneless skinless chicken recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort food to international inspirations, each dish offers a twist on traditional cooking methods. Try Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet, Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, or Creamy Parmesan Chicken Pasta for a quick and delicious meal. Other standouts include Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken, Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry, and Chicken Tikka Masala. With a variety of flavors and cooking techniques, there’s something for everyone in this mouthwatering collection of recipes.
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