Name: Tenderized Chicken Breast
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper; 2 tablespoons Olive oil; 1 teaspoon Garlic powder; 1 teaspoon Onion powder; 1 teaspoon Paprika; 2 tablespoons Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) (For garnish); 2 tablespoons Lemon juice (Freshly squeezed)

A quick and easy way to get moist chicken every time.

Table of Contents

introduction

This Tenderized Chicken Breast is simple and fast. You pound the meat thin, add salt, pepper, spices, olive oil, and lemon. It cooks quickly and stays tender. For a rich sauce idea, try the creamy garlic parmesan chicken breast which pairs well with this dish.

why make this recipe

You make this recipe because it is quick, keeps the chicken moist, and uses few ingredients. It works for weeknights, meal prep, or a simple dinner. The meat cooks evenly when tenderized.

how to make Tenderized Chicken Breast

Follow the steps below to tenderize and cook the chicken. Pound the breasts to even thickness so they cook the same. Season well and let the flavors sit for at least 30 minutes. Cook on a hot grill or skillet until done, then rest before slicing.

Ingredients :

Boneless skinless chicken breasts
Salt
Pepper
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Paprika
Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary)
Lemon juice

Directions :

Begin by placing the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.
Using a meat mallet, pound the chicken to an even thickness for even cooking.
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
Drizzle olive oil over the seasoned chicken, then squeeze lemon juice on top.
Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through.
Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve with fresh herbs on top.

how to serve Tenderized Chicken Breast

Slice the chicken and serve hot. Add fresh herbs on top. Serve with a salad, rice, roasted vegetables, or pasta. A squeeze of extra lemon brightens the dish.

how to store Tenderized Chicken Breast

Cool the chicken to room temperature no longer than two hours. Put in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Tenderized Chicken Breast

Pound evenly for uniform cooking.
Do not over-marinate; 30 minutes to 2 hours is enough.
Use a hot pan or grill so the outside browns quickly and the inside stays juicy.
Let the chicken rest 3–5 minutes before cutting to keep juices inside.

variation (if any)

Add a splash of soy sauce to the marinade for a savory touch.
Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes if you prefer baking.

FAQs

Q: How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
A: The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) or the juices run clear.

Q: Can I tenderize frozen chicken?
A: No. Thaw the chicken first, then pound it. Pounding frozen meat can tear it.

Q: Can I use bone-in breasts?
A: Bone-in breasts may not pound evenly. Boneless works best for this method.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?
A: Up to 2 hours is best. Too long can change the texture.

Conclusion

This simple method makes tender, moist chicken you can use in many meals. For more tips on cooking juicy and tender chicken breasts every time, see the helpful guide from The Kitchn: How to Cook Juicy & Tender Chicken Breasts (Best Method).