If you’re looking for versatile, fast, and delicious meal options, thin sliced chicken breast recipes are the way to go. Thinly sliced chicken breasts cook faster, absorb marinades and seasonings more effectively, and can be used in a variety of dishes. From stir-fries to sandwiches, thin sliced chicken breasts are perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. This recipe will give you a simple and flavorful option that’s sure to become a favorite.
Why You’ll Love thin sliced chicken breast recipes
- Quick cooking: Thin sliced chicken breasts cook faster than whole chicken breasts, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe with different seasonings or use the chicken in salads, wraps, or as a main course.
- Healthy: Chicken breasts are a lean source of protein, making this a healthy meal option.
- Family-friendly: Simple ingredients and great flavor make this recipe a hit with all ages.
What You’ll Need
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients and tools:
- 4 thinly sliced chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or another cooking oil of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Tools for Thin Sliced Chicken Breast Recipes
- Large skillet: Perfect for quick cooking thin chicken breasts.
- Tongs: For flipping the chicken while cooking.
- Meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly.
- Whisk: To mix up any marinades or seasoning blends.
- Cutting board and knife: For prepping the chicken if it’s not pre-sliced.
How to Make Thin Sliced Chicken Breast Recipes
1. Season the chicken
- In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Pat the thin sliced chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then rub both sides of each chicken breast with the seasoning mix.
2. Sear the chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the thin sliced chicken breasts in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken just before removing it from the skillet.
3. Let the chicken rest
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 3-5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken moist.
4. Serve and enjoy
- Garnish the chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Helpful Tips for Thin Sliced Chicken Breast Recipes
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking too many chicken pieces at once can lead to steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: Thin chicken breasts can overcook quickly. Check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure juicy, perfectly cooked chicken.
- Marinate for extra flavor: If you have time, marinating the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes to an hour can add even more flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 thinly sliced chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- Combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a bowl.
- Pat the thin sliced chicken breasts dry and rub the seasoning mix onto both sides.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Step 3: Add Lemon Juice and Rest
- Squeeze lemon juice over the chicken, then transfer to a plate to rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
What to Serve with thin sliced chicken breast recipes
This thin sliced chicken breast recipe pairs well with a variety of side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, or green beans make a healthy and delicious pairing.
- Rice or quinoa: These grains soak up the flavors from the chicken and make for a filling meal.
- Salads: For a lighter option, serve the chicken over a fresh green salad with your favorite vinaigrette.
- Pasta: Serve the chicken with pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic for a complete meal.
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Thin sliced chicken freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, or microwave it for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
This thin sliced chicken breast recipe is simple, quick, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect go-to for busy weeknights or meal prep. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, healthy meal!