Hey there, fellow food lovers! Let’s dive into the world of chicken recipes for dinners, shall we? This simple and delicious chicken recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it’s quick to whip up and bursting with flavor. I mean, who doesn’t love a juicy chicken breast that practically cooks itself? Chicken is a go-to in so many kitchens around the world, and it’s no wonder why—it’s versatile, affordable, and can be dressed up or down depending on your mood. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress without all the fuss. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular dinner rotation!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering chicken dish. I’ve kept it simple, but trust me, the flavor is anything but! Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start cooking:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 lemon, juiced
Feel free to adjust the seasonings to match your personal taste. You can even throw in some herbs if you’re feeling adventurous! Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Chicken Recipes for Dinners
Let’s get cooking! This chicken recipe is so straightforward that you’ll feel like a pro in no time. First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and comes out perfectly juicy. While the oven is heating up, grab a medium-sized bowl and combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and lemon juice. Mix it all together until it’s well blended—this is where the magic begins!
Next, take your chicken breasts and coat them thoroughly with the mixture. Make sure every inch is covered; this is what gives your chicken that delicious flavor! Once they’re nicely coated, place the chicken in a baking dish, and pop it into the oven. Let it bake for about 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is golden and cooked through—no pink inside, please! After you pull it out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps keep the juices in, making each bite super tender and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and lemon juice.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the seasoning mixture until fully covered.
- Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Information
Before we dive into the deliciousness, let’s talk about the nutrition. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, so consider this as a general guide. For each serving of this delightful chicken dish, you’re looking at about 250 calories, with 10 grams of fat and 40 grams of protein—wow, right? It’s low in carbs, clocking in at zero, which makes it a great option if you’re watching your intake. Plus, with no sugar and just a hint of sodium, it’s a wholesome choice for dinner. Enjoy your meal guilt-free!
Tips for Success
Before you dive into this chicken recipe, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your dinner turns out perfectly every time! First, if you have a little extra time, consider marinating the chicken in the seasoning mixture for a few hours or even overnight. This really amps up the flavor and keeps the meat super juicy! Also, don’t be shy with the seasoning—feel free to adjust to your taste. Want a bit more kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes! And remember, you can easily add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the baking dish for a complete, one-pan meal. Happy cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick prep time—just 10 minutes and you’re on your way to dinner!
- Low fat and packed with protein, making it a healthy choice.
- Deliciously flavorful, thanks to the simple seasoning blend.
- Versatile—pair it with your favorite sides or veggies for a complete meal.
- Easy clean-up with just one baking dish required!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this delicious chicken ready to go, let’s talk sides! I love serving this dish with a fresh garden salad—just toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or sweet potatoes complement the chicken beautifully and add a pop of color to your plate. And don’t forget about some fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up those amazing juices! Trust me, these sides will elevate your dinner and make it feel extra special.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Store any extra chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it’ll stay good for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it’s warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quicker option—just cover it to keep it from drying out. Remember, don’t overheat; you want it juicy and tender, just like when it was freshly made!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before starting. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, but as long as they’re fully cooked through, you’re good to go!
What can I do if I don’t have paprika?
No worries! You can substitute with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, or even use a bit of chili powder for some heat. Just adjust to your taste!
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have one, cut into the thickest part of the breast—if the juices run clear and there’s no pink, it’s done!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the chicken and marinate it the night before. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it for dinner.
What are some great sides to pair with this chicken?
I love serving it with roasted veggies, a simple salad, or a side of quinoa. It’s super versatile, so feel free to get creative with your favorite sides!
Chicken Recipes for Dinners: 7 Ways to Wow Your Tastebuds
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A simple and delicious chicken recipe for dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and lemon juice.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture.
- Place the chicken in a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can add vegetables to the baking dish for a complete meal.
- Chicken can be marinated overnight for more flavor.
- Adjust seasoning as per your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: chicken recipes for dinners
