Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 delicious and easy-to-make plain chicken recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic baked chicken to grilled delights and savory stir-fries, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a home cook seeking inspiration for a special meal, these simple and flavorful recipes are sure to please. And the best part? They all feature plain chicken as the main ingredient, so you can customize them to your taste with your favorite seasonings and toppings.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started and discover some mouthwatering ways to cook up plain chicken!
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken
Moist and flavorful, this garlic butter baked chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can achieve a rich and savory dish with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and paprika.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread half of the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your backyard BBQ with this zesty lemon herb grilled chicken recipe, featuring a flavorful combination of citrus and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
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 slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Plain Chicken Breast
This classic slow cooker recipe yields tender and juicy chicken breast with minimal effort. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a prep-ahead option for meal planning.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Place the chicken in a slow cooker.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and olive oil.
4. Pour the mixture over the chicken breasts.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pan-Seared Chicken with Thyme
A classic and flavorful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides, this pan-seared chicken recipe is a staple for any occasion. With the added depth of thyme, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tsp fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Add the olive oil and butter to the preheated pan, letting it melt slightly.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the pan and sear for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside to rest.
6. Sprinkle thyme leaves over the top of each breast and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Oven-Roasted Plain Chicken
A classic and straightforward recipe that yields juicy and flavorful chicken with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1-2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (your preference)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs and spices (e.g., paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
5. Brush the chicken evenly with the olive oil mixture.
6. If desired, sprinkle your favorite herbs and spices over the chicken.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cooking Time:
– For 1 lb of chicken, cook for 25-30 minutes.
– For 2 lbs of chicken, cook for 50-60 minutes.
Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A classic and quick stir-fry recipe that combines the flavors of chicken, vegetables, and savory sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon 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 garlic and vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the chicken is coated with the sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Plain Chicken and Rice Skillet
This hearty skillet dish is a staple for any meal, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation. A perfect option for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large 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 diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Herbed Chicken with Olive Oil
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the simplicity of chicken breasts with the richness of olive oil and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Poached Chicken Breast
A classic and effortless way to cook chicken breast, poaching preserves the tender texture and flavorful essence of this staple protein. This simple recipe yields a deliciously moist result with minimal fuss.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
– Salt (to taste)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large saucepan or pot with the water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and add the lemon juice, if using.
3. Gently place the chicken breasts into the pot, making sure they are fully submerged in the liquid.
4. Cook for 12-15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the pot with a slotted spoon and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tips: Use fresh water and avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking. You can also add aromatics like onion, carrot, and celery to the poaching liquid for added flavor.
Plain Chicken Salad with Avocado
Plain Chicken Salad with Avocado Recipe
This classic chicken salad recipe gets a creamy boost from the addition of ripe avocado, making it a refreshing and healthy twist on a traditional favorite. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and customize to your taste.
- Ingredients:
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, avocado, yogurt, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
- Cooking Time:
- No cooking required! Simply mix and serve.
Baked Chicken with Rosemary
This recipe brings together the earthy flavor of rosemary and the juiciness of chicken, all in one easy-to-make dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush the top of each breast with the rosemary mixture.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Lemon Pepper
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the warmth of the grill with the brightness of lemon pepper. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon pepper seasoning and salt.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the lemon pepper mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. During the last minute of grilling, brush the tops of the chicken with lemon juice.
7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes total
Plain Chicken Soup with Noodles
This classic recipe is a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a warm and comforting bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chicken, chicken broth, onion, and garlic.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
4. Remove the chicken from the pot and shred into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
5. Add the cooked noodles to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Mushroom Skillet
This hearty one-pan dish combines tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and flavorful spices for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch!
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 olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the skillet.
6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Plain Chicken Tacos with Lime
This recipe combines the simplicity of plain chicken with the brightness of lime, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble the tacos by placing a few pieces of grilled chicken onto each tortilla. Serve with additional lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Chicken with Ginger
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of chicken breast with the warm, spicy flavor of ginger, perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken breast under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, place the chicken breast.
3. Add sliced ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil around the chicken.
4. Steam over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Plain Chicken Wraps with Hummus
Satisfy your hunger with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines juicy chicken, creamy hummus, and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 tablespoons hummus
– 1 cup mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread 1 tablespoon of hummus along the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Add about 1/4 cup of shredded chicken on top of the hummus.
4. Top with mixed greens, cucumber, and carrots.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll the wrap into a neat package.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including cooking time for chicken)
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for any meal. With its simplicity and flavor, it’s a great option for a weeknight dinner that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 18 simple and delicious plain chicken recipes! From classic garlic butter baked chicken to flavorful stir-fries, these easy-to-make dishes are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal, this collection has something for everyone. With a variety of cooking methods and flavor combinations, you’ll never get bored with the same old recipes again. Try one (or two, or three…) today and discover a new favorite!