Are you tired of the same old chicken dinner routine? Look no further! Cast iron skillets are a game-changer when it comes to cooking up delicious and easy meals, and chicken is always a crowd-pleaser. In this article, we’re sharing our top 20 favorite flavor-packed chicken cast iron skillet recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
From classic comfort foods like chicken and dumplings to international-inspired dishes like shawarma and paella, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe is quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup – a win-win in our books!
So go ahead, get cooking, and let the aroma of sizzling chicken fill your kitchen with flavor and warmth. We’re starting things off with some mouth-watering options that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters…
Garlic Butter Chicken with Lemon and Thyme
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and aromatic chicken dish, perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion. The combination of garlic butter, lemon zest, and thyme creates a mouthwatering sauce that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, zested
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, lemon zest, and thyme.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crispy Cast Iron Skillet Chicken with Rosemary
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the savory flavors of rosemary and garlic with a crispy, golden-brown crust.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp minced fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a cast iron skillet and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Cook the chicken for 20 minutes at 425°F (220°C), or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from oven and let rest for 5-7 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve: Hot, garnished with fresh rosemary leaves if desired.
Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken Thighs
Sweet and spicy come together in this flavorful chicken thigh recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, hot sauce, and garlic until well combined.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and pour the glaze over them, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray with olive oil. Arrange chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Fajitas
A classic Tex-Mex dish gets a hearty upgrade with this recipe, where juicy chicken and crispy bell peppers cook to perfection in a cast iron skillet. Serve with warm flour or corn tortillas, sour cream, and salsa for a flavorful fiesta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, bell peppers, onion, and garlic; cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
3. Sprinkle with chili powder and cumin; stir to combine.
4. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Chicken and Potatoes with Garlic
Simplify your dinner routine with this flavorful one-pan dish, packed with chicken, potatoes, and aromatic garlic. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the potatoes and garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Pepper Chicken with Asparagus
Brighten up your dinner plate with this zesty and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of lemon with the savory taste of pepper. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt to taste
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– Optional: garlic powder or minced garlic for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, and lemon zest.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with the lemon mixture. Season with salt to taste.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and optional garlic powder (if using). Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve chicken breasts with roasted asparagus and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Parmesan
Elevate your chicken parmesan game with this easy-to-make recipe that uses a cast iron skillet to create a crispy, cheesy masterpiece. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. Place in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
3. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish, spoon marinara sauce over the top of each breast, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken with Bell Peppers
Smoky Paprika Chicken with Bell Peppers: A flavorful and savory dish that combines the rich taste of smoky paprika with sweet bell peppers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until coated with the marinade.
4. Arrange bell pepper slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Place chicken pieces on top of bell peppers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and bell peppers are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken with Mushrooms
A classic combination of sweet and savory flavors, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Brush the chicken breasts with balsamic glaze, then place them on top of the mushroom mixture in the skillet.
5. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Chicken and Dumplings
A comforting classic made easy with a cast iron skillet! This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook chicken until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Add softened butter, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Drop dumpling mixture by spoonfuls onto the chicken in the skillet.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Herbed Chicken with Cherry Tomatoes
A flavorful and colorful dish that combines the richness of chicken with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all wrapped up in a fragrant herb bundle.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange cherry tomatoes around the chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and cherry tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jerk Chicken Skillet with Pineapple Salsa
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional chicken and rice dishes! This jerk seasoned skillet is packed with spicy goodness, while the pineapple salsa adds a sweet and tangy contrast.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in jerk seasoning and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add rice to the skillet and stir to combine with spice mixture.
5. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Meanwhile, combine pineapple chunks, cilantro, lime juice in a bowl. Stir to combine.
7. Serve chicken on top of rice mixture, topped with pineapple salsa.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Alfredo
A creamy, indulgent twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe uses a cast iron skillet to cook chicken and pasta in a rich Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large cast iron skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Whisk together flour and heavy cream until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with chicken and sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Chorizo Paella-Style Skillet
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful Chicken and Chorizo Paella-Style Skillet, packed with tender chicken, spicy chorizo, and aromatic rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 Spanish chorizo sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the chorizo sausage and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the rice, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Fluff with a fork and stir in cooked chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pesto Chicken with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and healthy dish that combines the richness of pesto chicken with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 1 large yellow squash, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with the pesto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast vegetables on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
6. Place chicken breasts on the same baking sheet as the vegetables and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, topped with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Shawarma
Savor the flavors of the Middle East with this easy-to-make Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Shawarma recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into thin strips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pita bread, cucumber-tomato salad, pickled turnips, and tzatziki sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
4. Place the marinated chicken in the preheated skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Serve with pita bread, cucumber-tomato salad, pickled turnips, and tzatziki sauce (if using).
Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken and Cornbread Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the rich flavors of BBQ chicken with the warm comfort of cornbread, all in one convenient and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 cups mixed veggies (bell peppers, onions, etc.)
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp baking powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of cooking spray or oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add mixed veggies. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornmeal, buttermilk, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Pour into the skillet with the veggies and cook for 1-2 minutes or until bubbles form.
5. Add BBQ sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with BBQ sauce.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Piccata with Capers and White Wine
This classic Italian dish is a staple of elegance and simplicity, where tender chicken breasts are pounded thin, dredged in flour, and sautéed to perfection in buttery white wine. The addition of salty capers adds a burst of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge each breast in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the floured chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the white wine to the skillet.
7. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
8. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and stir in the capers.
9. Serve the chicken breasts with the sauce spooned over top, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Pot Pie
A classic comfort food with a twist – this recipe uses a cast iron skillet to cook the filling and crust, resulting in a crispy, golden-brown pie that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, corn, and carrots)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 3/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the chicken, carrots, garlic, and mixed vegetables in the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and melted butter. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream or half-and-half, salt, and pepper to create the filling mixture.
4. Pour the filling into the prepared skillet, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll out the puff pastry to fit the top of the skillet. Place the pastry over the filling and crimp the edges to seal.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Thai Basil Chicken with Coconut Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this aromatic dish that combines the spicy kick of basil and chilies with the creamy richness of coconut rice.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Fresh Thai basil leaves, chopped
For the coconut rice:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together garlic, ginger, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, cumin, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. In a separate pot, combine coconut milk, rice, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
4. Serve the chicken with chopped Thai basil leaves on top and alongside the creamy coconut rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm on weeknights with these 20 mouth-watering chicken cast iron skillet recipes! From classic comfort food like chicken and potatoes, to international flavors like shawarma and paella, there’s something for everyone. Try garlic butter chicken with lemon and thyme, or spicy honey glazed chicken thighs for a sweet and savory twist. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
