Easy & Flavorful Homemade Chicken Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

For the Seasoning:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a deep, smoky flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to add brightness and balance the flavors)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy & Flavorful Homemade Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This will help the seasonings stick better and ensure a crispy exterior. If your chicken breasts are thick, you can pound them out slightly to even out the thickness, ensuring they cook evenly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. You can adjust the seasonings based on your preference—add more paprika for smokiness, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.

Sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of the chicken breasts. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty here—rub the spices into the chicken for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The olive oil will help prevent the butter from burning, while the butter adds richness and flavor to the chicken.

Allow the oil and butter to melt together and become hot, but not smoking.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Once the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken in batches.

Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes on one side without moving it. This allows the chicken to get a beautiful golden-brown sear. Once that side is browned, flip the chicken over and reduce the heat to medium.

Let the chicken cook for another 5-6 minutes on the second side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked while remaining juicy and tender.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice

Once the chicken is cooked through, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top of the chicken while it’s still in the pan. This brightens up the flavor and adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory seasoning.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pan and transfer it to a plate. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. This will keep the chicken juicy and tender.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

After the chicken has rested, sprinkle it with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your delicious homemade chicken with your favorite sides—think roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad.

Serving Suggestions

This easy and flavorful homemade chicken can be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Here are a few ideas:

• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers make a perfect complement to the savory flavors of the chicken.
• Rice Pilaf: A fluffy rice pilaf with a touch of lemon and herbs makes a great side dish to balance the richness of the chicken.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit and provide the perfect comforting base for your chicken.
• Simple Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add freshness to the meal and provide a nice contrast to the savory chicken.

Why This Recipe Works

• Quick & Easy: This recipe doesn’t require a lot of time or effort but yields a flavor-packed, satisfying dish.
• Versatile: You can easily customize the seasoning to fit your tastes. Try adding some cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, or switch up the herbs depending on what you have on hand.
• Perfectly Cooked Chicken: By following the steps closely, you’ll be able to cook the chicken to perfection every time, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful, not dry or tough.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is fully cooked without being overdone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle, ensuring your chicken stays juicy.
• Customize the Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can add a fragrant twist to this dish.

Final Thoughts

This easy and flavorful homemade chicken is sure to become a family favorite. With its tender, juicy texture and rich, savory flavors, it’s a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Plus, it’s quick to make and versatile, so you can customize it to your liking. Whether you’re serving it with a classic side or something more adventurous, this chicken recipe is simple yet satisfying, and it’s bound to impress everyone at the table. Try it out, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s full of flavor and easy to prepare!