There’s something timeless and comforting about a well-cooked chicken breast. Growing up in a half-Italian, half-American kitchen, we always had chicken breasts on hand. My Nonna would make a rosemary-garlic version for Sunday lunches, but when we visited my cousins in the States, it was all about juicy, grilled or baked chicken with bold, savoury American flavours.
This recipe is a beautiful blend of those influences—an American-style chicken breast dish that’s light enough for summer salads yet hearty enough for cozy winter dinners. Whether you’re meal prepping or planning a family feast, this dish promises juicy, flavorful results every time.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Breast Recipe
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Quick to cook: Ready in under 30 minutes.
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Season-friendly: Great on the grill for summer or baked for winter comfort.
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Healthy and lean: High in protein and low in fat.
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Perfect for meal prep: Keeps well for lunches and dinners.
Ingredients (Serves 5)
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5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon ground black pepper
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1 teaspoon salt
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Juice of 1 lemon
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Optional: Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Preparation & Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This step helps them get that golden-brown sear without steaming.
Step 2: Make the Seasoning Mix
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and lemon juice, then rub the seasoning mix all over each piece.
Step 3: Cook Your Way
Option A – Summer Grilled Chicken:
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
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Grill the chicken breasts for 6–7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
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Let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Option B – Winter Oven-Baked Chicken:
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Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish.
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Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the juices run clear and internal temp hits 165°F.
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Let them rest before serving.
Tips for the Juiciest Chicken Breast
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Don’t skip the resting time. It locks in moisture.
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Use a meat thermometer. It’s the best way to avoid overcooking.
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Pound chicken to even thickness if needed, for even cooking.
Storing & Reheating
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet with a splash of water or cover with foil and reheat in the oven.
Learn More & Cook Like a Pro
For those looking to deepen their kitchen know-how, here are a few expert resources that can guide your chicken-cooking journey even further:
USDA Chicken Cooking Guide
How to Grill Chicken Perfectly – Serious Eats
Oven-Baked Chicken Breast Recipe – Delish
Healthy Chicken Marinades – EatingWell
10 Juicy & Easy Chicken Breast Recipes You'll Love
A flavorful, juicy chicken breast recipe perfect for summer grilling or winter baking. Healthy, easy, and packed with bold American flavors.
Type: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken breast, grilled chicken, healthy dinner, easy chicken recipe, American chicken recipe
Recipe Yield: 5 servings
Calories: 250
Preparation Time: 10 Minutes
Cooking Time: 20 Minutes
Total Time: 30 Minutes
Recipe Ingredients:
- 5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon onion powder 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon dried thyme ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon salt Juice of 1 lemon Optional: Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Recipe Instructions: Prepare the Chicken: Pat dry with paper towels. Season: Mix spices and coat the chicken. Grill Method: Grill for 6–7 min per side until 165°F. Oven Method: Bake at 400°F for 22–25 minutes.
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