Simple Juicy Chicken Dinner – Easy & Delicious One-Pan Meal

If you’re looking for a simple juicy chicken dinner that’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan chicken recipe is exactly what you need. With golden seared chicken breasts and a short ingredient list, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

If you enjoy this simple juicy chicken dinner, you’ll also love this juicy baked chicken for another easy and foolproof weeknight meal.juicy baked chicken

Why This Simple Juicy Chicken Dinner Works

This recipe focuses on three key things: high heat, proper seasoning, and resting time. By searing the chicken first and then gently finishing it in the pan, the meat stays tender and juicy every time. No dry chicken, no complicated steps—just a reliable dinner you can make again and again.

Simple Juicy Chicken Dinner

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This simple juicy chicken dinner is an easy one-pan meal made with tender chicken breasts cooked until golden on the outside and perfectly moist inside. Ideal for busy weeknights when you want something quick and satisfying.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 24 minutes mins

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

• Ingredients
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes optional
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Method

 

1. Instructions
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes if using.
3. Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until hot and shimmering.
4. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook without moving for 5 to 6 minutes, until a golden crust forms on the bottom.
5. Flip the chicken breasts, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and cook for another 6 to 8 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 35gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 105mg

Notes

Notes

Letting the chicken rest before slicing is essential for keeping it juicy. A meat thermometer helps prevent overcooking.

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Ingredients for Simple Juicy Chicken Dinner

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish

Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are very thick, slice them horizontally to create even pieces. This helps the chicken cook evenly and stay juicy.

Season Well

In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Season both sides of the chicken generously.

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5–6 minutes without moving them. This creates a golden crust that locks in moisture.

Flip and Finish

Flip the chicken and cook for another 4–5 minutes. Lower the heat slightly, cover the pan, and let the chicken finish cooking gently until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Rest Before Serving

Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial for keeping the chicken juicy.

Tips for the Juiciest Chicken Dinner

• Don’t overcrowd the pan—give the chicken space to sear
• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness
• Let the chicken rest before slicing
• Medium-high heat is key for sealing in juices

What to Serve with Simple Juicy Chicken Dinner

This chicken pairs well with:

• Rice or quinoa
• Roasted vegetables
• Mashed potatoes
• Simple green salad
• Steamed broccoli or spinach

Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth
• Avoid microwaving too long to prevent drying out

Simple Juicy Chicken Dinner FAQs

How do I keep chicken breasts from drying out?
Searing first and finishing gently while covered helps trap moisture.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless thighs work great and stay even juicier.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It reheats well and stays tender when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

This simple juicy chicken dinner proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or long cooking times to make tender, flavorful chicken. It’s a reliable, one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknights and guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.