When it comes to cooking chicken breasts, there are many ways to achieve that perfect level of crispiness on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. One popular method is to pound the chicken breasts thin, which allows for even cooking and a tender texture. But what’s next? Where do you go from here? In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering recipes that take the humble pounded chicken breast to new heights. From classic flavors like Garlic Parmesan and Lemon Herb to international inspirations like Teriyaki and Mediterranean, there’s something for everyone in this collection of crispy pounded chicken breast recipes. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick weeknight meals or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next dinner party, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Garlic Parmesan Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this crispy, flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese and the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together garlic and parmesan cheese.
3. Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
4. Dip each pounded chicken breast into the garlic-parmesan mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Herb Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this refreshing twist on a classic dish. This Lemon Herb Pounded Chicken Breast recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, pound each chicken breast to an even thickness.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the pounded chicken breasts in the marinade, coating both sides evenly.
5. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
6. Remove from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
7. Bake on a lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Breaded Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this crispy breaded pounded chicken breast recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying tender, flavorful bites in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each pounded chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry coated chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Transfer fried chicken to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to crisp up the breadcrumbs.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, including frying and baking.
Spicy Cajun Pounded Chicken Breast
Add a kick to your chicken breasts with this spicy Cajun recipe, perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal. This dish is quick, easy, and packed with bold flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness.
4. Dip each breast in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
6. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Serve with: Your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or cornbread.
Honey Mustard Glazed Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy glazed recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, these pounded chicken breasts are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together honey, mustard, and garlic.
3. Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
4. Place the pounded breasts in the honey-mustard mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the glaze to set.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Stuffed Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. By pounding and stuffing chicken breasts with a vibrant pesto mixture, you’ll create a moist and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto ( basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, olive oil)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together pesto and olive oil.
4. Lay the pounded chicken breasts flat and divide the pesto mixture evenly among them, spreading it along the center of each breast.
5. Fold the sides over the filling and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet impressive dish that combines the rich flavor of bacon with the tender texture of pounded chicken breast. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together salt and pepper. Sprinkle both sides of the pounded chicken breasts with the seasoning mixture.
4. Cut the bacon slices in half and wrap each chicken breast with two pieces of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the bacon-wrapped chicken breasts.
6. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, combine balsamic glaze, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
4. Add the pounded chicken breasts to the balsamic mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this creamy, spinach-packed twist on the classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and garlic.
4. Place the spinach mixture along the center of each chicken breast, leaving a 1-inch border on both sides.
5. Fold the chicken over the filling, making sure it’s evenly sealed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Pounded Chicken Breast
Transform tender chicken breast into a mouthwatering Teriyaki masterpiece with this simple and flavorful recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll be enjoying juicy, savory goodness in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pound chicken breasts until they’re about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
4. Add the pounded chicken to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Remove from refrigerator and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Pounded Chicken Breast
Transform ordinary chicken breasts into a flavorful masterpiece with this Mediterranean-inspired pounded chicken breast recipe. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy feta, and tangy olives will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped Kalamata olives
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together olive oil, feta cheese, olives, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Place chicken breasts in the dish and pound gently with a meat mallet or rolling pin until evenly flattened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Buffalo Style Pounded Chicken Breast
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional chicken breast with this easy-to-make Buffalo style pounded chicken recipe. Tender, juicy chicken is smothered in spicy buffalo sauce, perfect for game day gatherings or weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup buffalo wing sauce
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness.
3. In a shallow dish, mix together yogurt, hot sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Dip each pounded chicken breast in the yogurt mixture, coating evenly.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle buffalo wing sauce over the top of each chicken breast.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caprese Stuffed Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and visually stunning dish, featuring succulent chicken breast stuffed with the classic Italian Caprese combination of fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap.
3. Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch.
4. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, tomato, and basil leaves.
5. Divide the Caprese mixture among the four chicken breasts, placing it in the center of each breast.
6. Fold the chicken over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the tenderizing power of pounding with the rich taste of BBQ sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together yogurt, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm) using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
4. Place the pounded chicken breasts in the yogurt mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle BBQ sauce over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re fully covered.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herb-Crusted Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and tender chicken breast recipe, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap.
3. Pound each breast to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Brush the herb mixture evenly onto both sides of the pounded chicken breasts.
6. Dip each breast in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
7. Place the crusted chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and tender recipe that combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the juiciness of pounded chicken breast.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 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 shallow dish, mix together chopped sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Using the flat side of a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound each breast to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
4. Dip each pounded chicken breast into the sun-dried tomato mixture, coating both sides evenly.
5. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chili Lime Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this bold and zesty recipe that combines the flavors of chili, lime, and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lime juice, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
4. Place the pounded breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush both sides of the chicken with the lime-garlic mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Almond-Crusted Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this crispy and juicy chicken breast recipe. A flavorful combination of almonds, Parmesan cheese, and herbs adds a satisfying crunch to tender pounded chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup almond meal
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of parchment paper or plastic wrap.
3. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch (6 mm).
4. In a shallow dish, mix together almond meal, Parmesan cheese, and thyme.
5. Dip each pounded chicken breast into the almond mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
6. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple Dijon Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of maple syrup with the tanginess of Dijon mustard. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Pound each chicken breast to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken with the maple-Dijon mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Pounded Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and tender chicken breast recipe, infused with the aromas of rosemary and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chopped rosemary.
3. Pound each chicken breast to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch.
4. Season the pounded chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
5. Drizzle olive oil on both sides of the chicken breasts.
6. Divide the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly among the chicken breasts, spreading it over the surface.
7. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your poultry game with these mouth-watering crispy pounded chicken breast recipes! From classic comfort foods to international flavors, we’ve got 20 delicious options to tantalize your taste buds. Try Garlic Parmesan Pounded Chicken Breast for a creamy twist or Spicy Cajun Pounded Chicken Breast for a bold kick. Other standout dishes include Lemon Herb Pounded Chicken Breast, Honey Mustard Glazed Pounded Chicken Breast, and many more. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or spicy, we’ve got a pounded chicken breast recipe to satisfy your cravings.