Simple Juicy Chicken Dinner (Skillet Recipe)

This simple juicy chicken dinner brings golden skillet chicken to the table fast, filling the kitchen with savory aromas and delivering tender bites that feel comforting on busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Juicy Chicken Dinner

This simple juicy chicken dinner is built for nights when you want real food without a long list of steps. The skillet method keeps the chicken moist while creating a lightly golden exterior that tastes like you spent more time than you did.

• Straightforward skillet method with dependable results
• Juicy chicken breasts with a lightly browned finish
• Simple pantry seasonings that go with any side
• Easy to repeat on busy evenings

If you enjoy reliable chicken recipes, you’ll also love this Juicy Baked Chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses everyday ingredients that work together to keep the chicken juicy while building gentle, comforting flavor.

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts — 2 large
• Salt — ¾ teaspoon
• Black pepper — ½ teaspoon
• Garlic powder — ½ teaspoon
• Paprika — ½ teaspoon
• Olive oil — 1 tablespoon
• Unsalted butter — 1 tablespoon
• Chicken broth — ¼ cup
• Fresh parsley, chopped — 1 tablespoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a simple juicy chicken dinner that stays tender from the first bite to the last.

1. Prepare the chicken by patting the breasts dry with paper towels. Drying the surface helps the chicken brown instead of steaming once it hits the skillet. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, pressing the seasoning gently so it adheres.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until it feels hot but not smoking. Add the olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan evenly.
3. Place the chicken breasts into the hot skillet and let them cook undisturbed for 5–6 minutes. Resist the urge to move them—this contact with the pan is what creates a golden crust.
4. Flip the chicken carefully using tongs. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt around the chicken, tilting the pan slightly so the butter coats the surface.
5. Pour the chicken broth into the skillet around the chicken, not directly on top. This creates gentle steam that keeps the chicken moist while it finishes cooking.
6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet loosely. Cook for another 6–8 minutes, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken feels firm but springy.
7. Remove the skillet from the heat and rest the chicken for 5 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping every slice tender.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and spoon a little of the pan juices over the top before serving.

Pro Tips for Success

For the juiciest results, start with evenly sized chicken breasts. If one side is thicker, gently pound it to an even thickness so it cooks at the same rate. Keep the heat steady—too high can brown the outside before the inside is done. Always rely on temperature, not guesswork. Resting the chicken is essential and should never be skipped if you want a truly simple juicy chicken dinner.

Serving Ideas

This simple juicy chicken dinner pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, buttered rice, or steamed green beans. It also works well sliced over a fresh salad or tucked into wraps. For another dependable chicken option, serve it alongside this Oven Baked Chicken Breast.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of broth to keep the chicken moist. This recipe works well for meal prep when reheated carefully.

Variations You Can Try

Add Italian seasoning or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. You can also turn this into a one-pan meal by adding vegetables to the skillet, similar to this Easy One Pan Chicken Recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you keep skillet chicken juicy?

Cooking over moderate heat, adding broth, and resting the chicken prevents moisture loss.

How long should chicken cook in a skillet?

Most chicken breasts take about 12–14 minutes total, depending on thickness.

Do I need to cover the skillet?

Covering briefly helps the chicken finish cooking without drying out.

How do I know chicken is done?

Chicken is fully cooked at an internal temperature of 165°F.

Conclusion

This simple juicy chicken dinner proves that a skillet, a few ingredients, and the right timing can deliver comforting, dependable results. It’s a recipe you can trust when dinner needs to be easy and satisfying.

Let’s Stay Connected

If you enjoyed this recipe, come hang out with me on Instagram and Pinterest for more cozy dinners and easy weeknight ideas.

Let’s Stay Connected

If you enjoyed this recipe, come hang out with me on Instagram and Pinterest for more cozy dinners and easy weeknight ideas.

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