Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious and easy-to-make plain chicken recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic comfort foods like baked chicken and grilled chicken, to international-inspired dishes like chicken stir-fry and tacos, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
To start, let’s take a look at some popular chicken recipes that are perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or tangy, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering plain chicken dishes.
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple and flavorful garlic butter baked chicken recipe. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be on your way to a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, and dried thyme until well combined.
3. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread half of 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. Remove from oven and brush remaining garlic butter mixture over the top of each chicken breast.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
This recipe brings together the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of herbs, and the smokiness of the grill to create a deliciously flavorful chicken dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the lemon herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow Cooker Plain Chicken and Rice
This classic comfort food recipe is a staple for any slow cooker enthusiast. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
2. Add the rice to the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly around the chicken.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pan-Seared Chicken with Thyme
Pan-Seared Chicken with Thyme: A Classic Dish with a Twist!
This recipe combines the simplicity of pan-searing chicken with the earthy flavor of thyme, resulting in a deliciously moist and aromatic dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt.
4. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme. Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Easy Oven-Roasted Plain Chicken
A classic and simple recipe that yields tender and flavorful chicken with minimal effort. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
– Salt, to taste
– Pepper, to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs and spices (e.g., paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place the chicken in a single layer in a baking dish or roasting pan.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Baste the chicken with its own juices every 30 minutes for added moisture and flavor.
Cooking Time:
– 2 lbs: 40-50 minutes
– 3 lbs: 60-75 minutes
Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for any meal. With its mix of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and savory sauce, this stir-fry is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Plain Chicken Salad with Avocado
This simple recipe combines the timeless flavors of chicken salad with the creamy richness of avocado, creating a delicious and healthy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, avocado, yogurt, and mustard.
2. Mix until well combined, but still chunky.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (preparation) + chilling time
Herbed Chicken Skewers
A flavorful and easy-to-make snack or main course, these herbed chicken skewers are perfect for any occasion. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of herbs and spices, then grill to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat.
3. Thread 3-4 pieces of chicken onto each skewer.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Simple Poached Chicken Breast
Poaching chicken breast is a great way to cook this lean protein without adding extra fat or calories. This simple recipe yields moist and flavorful chicken that’s perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with water to a depth of about 2 inches.
2. Add the sliced lemon, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary (if using) to the pot.
3. Bring the water to a simmer over medium-high heat.
4. Carefully place the chicken breasts into the pot, making sure they’re fully submerged in the water.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken cook for 12-15 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove the chicken from the pot with a slotted spoon and drain off any excess liquid.
7. Serve hot, sliced, and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
One-Pot Plain Chicken and Potatoes
This recipe is a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Chicken with Rosemary
This classic combination of flavors is a staple for any occasion. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a deliciously moist and aromatic chicken dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the mixture evenly over both chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Plain Chicken Tacos with Lime
This recipe serves up flavorful and easy-to-make tacos with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering. By keeping the focus on the simplicity of grilled chicken, crisp lettuce, and tangy lime, you’ll be delighted by this delightful twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as lettuce, cilantro, and scallions)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Slice grilled chicken into thin strips.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with chicken, mixed greens, and lime juice. Add desired toppings and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Garlic Sauce
Savory grilled chicken paired with a rich and creamy garlic sauce makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup garlic sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with garlic sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Plain Chicken Soup with Noodles
Warm up with a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and always satisfying. This plain chicken soup with noodles is a straightforward recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
6. Combine the cooked noodles with the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for any meal prep or weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful and nutritious stir-fry in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, then add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add broccoli to the pan and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Return chicken to the pan, stir in soy sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Plain Chicken Wraps with Hummus
A classic combination of flavors and textures, these plain chicken wraps are a satisfying snack or light meal. With the creamy richness of hummus, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Hummus (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, cucumber, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the tortillas.
4. Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or grill them for a few seconds on each side.
5. Assemble the wraps by spreading hummus on a tortilla, followed by chicken, and any desired toppings.
6. Fold the wrap in half to serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Oven-Fried Plain Chicken Tenders
Get crispy and juicy oven-fried chicken tenders with minimal effort! This recipe is a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into strips
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. In a separate dish, beat the egg.
4. Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each tender.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Plain Chicken and Mushroom Skillet
This classic comfort food dish is a staple for any busy night. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 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 until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the mushrooms and garlic to the skillet; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Simple Chicken and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe combines juicy chicken with crunchy bell peppers, all cooked to perfection in just a few minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a busy day when you need something fast and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
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 pan.
3. Add the bell peppers and garlic; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
4. Return the chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Plain Chicken Pasta with Olive Oil
A classic and comforting dish that highlights the simplicity of good ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. 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 and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing with the garlic and olive oil. If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and toss to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your cooking routine with these 20 simple and delicious plain chicken recipes! From classic baked and grilled dishes to hearty stews and skillet meals, this collection has something for everyone. Try garlic butter baked chicken, lemon herb grilled chicken, or slow cooker plain chicken and rice for a comforting meal. For a quick fix, whip up pan-seared chicken with thyme or oven-roasted plain chicken. And don’t forget the international flair: plain chicken salad with avocado, herbed chicken skewers, and plain chicken tacos with lime are just a few examples. Whether you’re a busy cook or a culinary newbie, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
