20 Flavorful Sauteed Chicken Breast Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Carmen Eldridge

March 30, 2025

20 Flavorful Sauteed Chicken Breast Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Are you tired of the same old chicken breast recipes? Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious sautéed chicken breast recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary newbie, these flavorful and easy-to-make dishes will become staples in your kitchen. From classic garlic butter to international-inspired teriyaki and coconut curry, we’ve got you covered.

In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these mouthwatering recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for getting the best results. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, our sautéed chicken breast recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Garlic Butter Sauteed Chicken Breast

Garlic Butter Sauteed Chicken Breast
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with tender chicken breast.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Add the chicken to the preheated skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the garlic butter mixture to the skillet.
6. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the chicken breast, letting it melt and coat the meat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Lemon Herb Sauteed Chicken Breast

Lemon Herb Sauteed Chicken Breast
Brighten up your dinner plate with this zesty and aromatic chicken breast recipe, featuring the perfect balance of citrusy freshness and savory herby goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or special occasion.

Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish. Brush the lemon-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Serve: Garnish with additional rosemary leaves, if desired. Enjoy!

Honey Mustard Sauteed Chicken Breast

Honey Mustard Sauteed Chicken Breast
A sweet and tangy twist on classic chicken breast, this recipe combines the flavors of honey and mustard for a deliciously moist and flavorful dish.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together mustard, honey, and thyme.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add chicken breasts and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
6. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Spicy Cajun Sauteed Chicken Breast

Spicy Cajun Sauteed Chicken Breast
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun cooking with the simplicity of sautéing chicken breast, resulting in a spicy and savory dish perfect for any meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
7. In the same skillet, add the hot sauce and stir to combine.
8. Return the chicken to the skillet and toss with the spicy sauce.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Creamy Mushroom Sauteed Chicken Breast

Creamy Mushroom Sauteed Chicken Breast
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and creamy chicken breast recipe, featuring sautéed mushrooms and a hint of garlic. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with mushrooms. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Return chicken breasts to skillet and spoon creamy mushroom sauce over them. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Balsamic Glazed Sauteed Chicken Breast

Balsamic Glazed Sauteed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This dish combines the richness of balsamic glaze with the tender juiciness of sautéed chicken breast.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken breasts in a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush the balsamic glaze all over the chicken breasts during the last minute of cooking.
6. Transfer to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Pesto Sauteed Chicken Breast

Pesto Sauteed Chicken Breast
Pesto Sauteed Chicken Breast: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of pesto with the tender juiciness of chicken breast.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the pesto and garlic.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Add the olive oil to the preheated skillet and swirl it around.
5. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and saute for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
6. Brush the pesto-garlic mixture evenly over the chicken breasts during the last minute of cooking.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Teriyaki Sauteed Chicken Breast

Teriyaki Sauteed Chicken Breast
A sweet and savory twist on traditional chicken breast, this Teriyaki sautéed recipe is a quick and easy dinner solution. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Teriyaki sauce, garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the vegetable oil to the skillet.
6. Pour in the Teriyaki sauce mixture and stir to combine.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized.
8. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Mediterranean Sauteed Chicken Breast

Mediterranean Sauteed Chicken Breast
Add a flavorful twist to your chicken breast with this simple and delicious recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a impressive meal for guests.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, oregano, parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and brush with the herb mixture.
4. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Maple Dijon Sauteed Chicken Breast

Maple Dijon Sauteed Chicken Breast
A sweet and savory twist on classic sautéed chicken, this recipe combines the richness of maple syrup with the tanginess of Dijon mustard for a truly unforgettable flavor experience.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and brush with the maple-Dijon mixture.
5. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Sun-Dried Tomato Sauteed Chicken Breast

Sun-Dried Tomato Sauteed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the savory taste of sun-dried tomatoes with juicy chicken breast. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 sun-dried tomatoes and garlic.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from skillet and top each breast with the sun-dried tomato mixture.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly (if using).
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Thai Basil Sauteed Chicken Breast

Thai Basil Sauteed Chicken Breast
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this simple and aromatic dish, featuring sautéed chicken breast infused with the sweetness of Thai basil.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup fresh Thai basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine Thai basil leaves, garlic, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using). Set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Pour the Thai basil mixture into the same skillet and stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon some of the Thai basil sauce over each breast.
7. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, until the chicken is well coated with the sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Smoky Paprika Sauteed Chicken Breast

Smoky Paprika Sauteed Chicken Breast
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic dish, where smoky paprika adds a depth of flavor to tender chicken breast.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat a large skillet or saute pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and brush both sides with the paprika mixture.
4. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes

Rosemary Garlic Sauteed Chicken Breast

Rosemary Garlic Sauteed Chicken Breast
This aromatic chicken breast recipe combines the earthy flavors of rosemary and garlic to create a mouthwatering dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal ingredients and effortless cooking, you’ll be enjoying this delicious meal in no time!

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your skillet or saute pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Add the olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl it around.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the pan, leaving space between each piece.
5. Sprinkle the minced garlic and chopped rosemary evenly over the top of each breast.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, flipping halfway.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: Approximately 12-14 minutes

Chimichurri Sauteed Chicken Breast

Chimichurri Sauteed Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken dish with the bright, herby flavors of Argentinean chimichurri sauce! This recipe yields tender and juicy chicken breasts smothered in a tangy and aromatic sauce.

Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and brush with chimichurri sauce.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until sauce is caramelized.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Coconut Curry Sauteed Chicken Breast

Coconut Curry Sauteed Chicken Breast
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional chicken breast, this recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of curry spices.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the coconut milk and curry powder.
7. Pour the coconut curry mixture over the chicken and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Orange Ginger Sauteed Chicken Breast

Orange Ginger Sauteed Chicken Breast
A vibrant and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of orange with the warmth of ginger, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe yields moist and aromatic chicken breast with a sticky glaze.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh orange slices and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add ginger, garlic, marmalade, soy sauce, and honey. Stir to combine.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with orange slices and green onions (if using). Serve hot.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Parmesan Crusted Sauteed Chicken Breast

Parmesan Crusted Sauteed Chicken Breast
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and crispy Parmesan crusted chicken breast, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Add the coated chicken breasts and sauté for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy your crispy Parmesan crusted chicken breast!

Sesame Soy Sauteed Chicken Breast

Sesame Soy Sauteed Chicken Breast
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the nutty taste of sesame oil with the savory essence of soy sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
3. Add the chicken breasts 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.
5. Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
6. Pour the sesame-soy sauce mixture into the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic.
7. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to coat with the sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Avocado Lime Sauteed Chicken Breast

Avocado Lime Sauteed Chicken Breast
Elevate your meal game with this flavorful and healthy recipe that combines the creaminess of avocado, brightness of lime juice, and tender chicken breast. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the skillet and sauté chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add diced avocado, lime juice, and garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve chicken breasts with the avocado-lime sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful sautéed chicken breast recipes! From classic garlic butter to international-inspired dishes like Thai Basil and Coconut Curry, there’s something for everyone. Try adding some Mediterranean flair with lemon and herbs or a spicy kick with cajun seasonings. Or, if you’re in the mood for something sweet, try maple dijon or honey mustard. With these easy and quick recipes, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time.

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