When it comes to weeknight dinners, we often find ourselves stuck in a rut. The same old routine: toss something in the oven, grab some leftovers from the fridge, or (gasp!) order takeout. But what if I told you there’s a way to spice up your mealtime without sacrificing flavor or ease? Enter stovetop chicken recipes! With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can whip up a delicious, healthy dinner in no time.
From classic comfort food to international-inspired dishes, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering stovetop chicken recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family of four, these quick and easy meals will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling satisfied.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of stovetop chicken recipes and explore everything from creamy sauces to bold seasonings. So grab your apron, fire up your stove, and get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner game!
Garlic Butter Stovetop Chicken Thighs
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this easy and flavorful recipe for garlic butter stovetop chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken thighs and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken thighs to the skillet, skin side down (if they have skin). Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until browned.
5. Flip the chicken thighs and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
7. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Stir in lemon zest and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Lemon Herb Stovetop Chicken Breast
Brighten up your mealtime with this zesty and aromatic recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Tender chicken breast is infused with the citrusy goodness of lemon and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the lemon juice, garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the lemon herb sauce over each breast.
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is fully coated with the sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Stovetop Chicken
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s quick and easy to make, featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a hint of Tuscany. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 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 on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth.
6. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with basil, salt, and pepper.
7. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Spicy Honey Glazed Stovetop Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this sweet and spicy stovetop chicken recipe. This flavorful dish is perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until browned on both sides.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, hot sauce, and chicken broth.
4. Brush the glaze all over the chicken breasts and continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stovetop Chicken and Mushroom Skillet
Savor the flavors of a hearty, one-pot meal with this easy stovetop recipe that combines juicy chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. Add the mushrooms, garlic, and onion to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and thyme. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
One-Pan Stovetop Chicken Fajitas
Savory chicken, crunchy peppers, and warm flour tortillas come together in this quick and easy fajita recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in chili powder and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble fajitas by placing chicken and vegetable mixture onto tortillas, then add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stovetop Chicken Piccata with Capers
A classic Italian-inspired dish, Stovetop Chicken Piccata is a flavorful and easy-to-make meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe features juicy chicken breasts topped with a tangy caper sauce and served with a side of pasta or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and flour.
2. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
5. Add the white wine (if using), chicken broth, and capers to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve the chicken breasts with the caper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stovetop Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
Quickly cook chicken and your favorite vegetables in a savory sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. This stovetop stir-fry recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and broccoli; cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Cook for an additional minute, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stovetop Chicken Curry in Coconut Milk
Savor the rich flavors of India with this simple and aromatic stovetop chicken curry made with coconut milk, onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and let curry simmer for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice, naan, or roti.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stovetop Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
A flavorful and creamy stovetop dish that combines the richness of chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and heavy cream. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 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 and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stovetop Chicken and Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and filling one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large stovetop-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot and stir for 1 minute.
5. Add the rice to the pot and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion mixture.
6. Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. Return the chicken to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Stovetop Chicken with Balsamic Glaze
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional chicken dishes, this recipe combines the rich flavors of balsamic glaze with succulent chicken breasts cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, and thyme.
5. Pour the glaze over the chicken and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stovetop Chicken and Spinach Alfredo
This creamy pasta dish is a quick and satisfying meal that combines the flavors of chicken, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. With only a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious dinner in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add garlic powder and spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stovetop Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and easy-to-make stovetop chicken dish, smothered in a rich garlic parmesan sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce and toss to coat. Season with basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stovetop Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a quick and easy way to get your daily dose of veggies and protein. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a flavorful and nutritious meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and broccoli. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Stovetop Chicken with Lemon Garlic Butter
Stovetop Chicken with Lemon Garlic Butter: A Bright and Flavorful Twist on a Classic!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Pour in lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer until cooked through, about 10-12 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Stovetop Chicken and Bell Pepper Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the simplicity of chicken, bell peppers, and onions with a burst of savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
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 skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stovetop Chicken with Creamy Dijon Mustard Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, mustard, and cream for a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and creamy.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over each breast.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stovetop Chicken and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty hash recipe combines the flavors of juicy chicken, tender sweet potatoes, and crispy onions, all cooked to perfection on your stovetop. A satisfying and filling meal perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, chili powder, or other spices of your choice
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 pan and set aside.
3. Add the sweet potatoes and onions to the pan. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the garlic and cooked chicken back into the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Stovetop Chicken with Rosemary and White Wine Sauce
A classic French-inspired dish that combines the tender flavor of chicken with the earthy aroma of rosemary, all wrapped up in a rich white wine sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (dry)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the white wine and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering stovetop chicken recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From Garlic Butter Stovetop Chicken Thighs to Spicy Honey Glazed Stovetop Chicken, and from creamy sauces to savory stir-fries, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick and easy meal or something more elaborate, this collection of stovetop chicken recipes has got you covered.
