When it comes to cooking chicken, simplicity can be a beautiful thing. Sometimes we just want to focus on bringing out the natural flavor of the bird without adding a ton of extraneous seasonings or sauces. And that’s exactly what these 20 simple plain chicken recipes are all about.
From classic baked and grilled options to slow cooker and stovetop methods, we’ve got you covered with a variety of ways to prepare plain yet delicious chicken dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a healthy snack for your lunchbox, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll take a look at 20 different simple plain chicken recipes that showcase the versatility and taste of plain old chicken. So grab some chicken breasts, thighs, or drumsticks and let’s get started!
Garlic Butter Baked Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter and garlic with the tenderness of baked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your dinner table with this refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken. Lemon and herbs come together to create a flavorful and moist dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, 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 Breast
Moist and tender chicken breast cooked to perfection with minimal effort – this slow cooker recipe is a simple yet satisfying solution for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken breasts.
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 Olive Oil
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. Pan-searing chicken breasts with olive oil yields a crispy exterior and juicy interior that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil to the preheated pan and swirl it around.
4. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes total
Easy Oven-Roasted Plain Chicken Thighs
A simple and delicious recipe that yields juicy and flavorful chicken thighs with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices (e.g., paprika, garlic powder)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving some space between each thigh.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken, then sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, add your favorite herbs or spices.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Basic Poached Chicken for Salads
Poaching chicken breasts results in tender, juicy, and flavorful meat perfect for adding to salads or using in a variety of dishes. This simple recipe yields delicious poached chicken with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine water, sliced lemon, garlic, and thyme.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low (around 140°F) and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the poaching liquid. If necessary, adjust the temperature to maintain a gentle simmer.
4. Poach the chicken for 12-15 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Remove the chicken from the water with a slotted spoon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Plain Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A simple and flavorful stir-fry recipe that combines the comfort of chicken with the crunch of vegetables, all in one quick and easy dish.
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 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite stir-fry sauce or soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add your favorite stir-fry sauce or soy sauce.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Simple Skillet Chicken with Salt and Pepper
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. This simple skillet chicken dish is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a busy day when you need something satisfying in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
4. Sprinkle the salt and pepper over the top of the chicken and onion mixture.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Herbed Plain Chicken Drumsticks
These tender and flavorful chicken drumsticks are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The simplicity of this recipe allows the natural flavors of the herbs to shine through, making it a great option for those who prefer lighter seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken drumsticks, then sprinkle the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the drumsticks.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the drumsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Quick Air Fryer Plain Chicken Tenders
Get crispy and delicious chicken tenders with minimal effort using your air fryer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into strips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, toss the chicken tenders with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Load the chicken tenders into the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
4. Cook the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Check for doneness by cutting into one of the tenders. It should be cooked through and slightly crispy.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Classic Boiled Chicken for Broth
A simple and straightforward recipe for cooking chicken that’s perfect for making a delicious homemade broth. This method yields tender, flavorful meat that’s ideal for soups, stews, or sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2-3 carrots, peeled
– 2-3 celery stalks
– 2 cloves of garlic, peeled
– 6 cups water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken and place it in a large pot or stockpot.
2. Add the carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot.
3. Pour in the water, making sure that the chicken is covered by at least an inch of liquid.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Strain the broth and discard the solids.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Plain Chicken and Rice One-Pot Meal
This simple and satisfying recipe is a staple of comfort food, requiring minimal ingredients and effort to produce a delicious, one-pot meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, rice, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Plain Chicken with Minimal Seasoning
Simple Baked Plain Chicken with Minimal Seasoning Recipe
Juicy Plain Chicken Breast with Thyme
This simple recipe yields juicy and flavorful chicken breasts infused with the earthy flavor of thyme, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying tender and delicious chicken in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken breasts and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the thyme mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stovetop Plain Chicken Cutlets
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick and easy to make, this stovetop plain chicken cutlet dish is a staple for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying dinner on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Dip each breast in the flour, shaking off excess.
3. Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the floured chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Plain Chicken Wraps with Lettuce
A classic and simple wrap recipe that’s perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, etc.)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the wraps by placing the grilled chicken onto a tortilla, followed by a handful of mixed greens.
6. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrap.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Basic Grilled Chicken Skewers
Elevate your summer BBQ game with these simple yet flavorful grilled chicken skewers. Perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering, this recipe yields tender and juicy results.
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 lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 10-12 minutes per side, or until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Plain Chicken Soup with Noodles
A simple yet satisfying soup that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting pick-me-up on a chilly day. This recipe is a staple for many, and for good reason – it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 8 ounces of egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
6. Combine the cooked noodles with the chicken mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Marinated Chicken for Tacos
This recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken that’s perfect for tacos, salads, or wraps. With a short marinating time, you can quickly prepare this dish and add it to your favorite Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Plain Chicken Salad with Celery
This timeless recipe yields a simple yet satisfying chicken salad that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a snack on its own. With the crunch of celery and the creaminess of mayonnaise, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced chicken, chopped celery, and mayonnaise.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve on your favorite bread, crackers, or as a standalone snack.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep time), serves 4-6 people
Summary
Looking for some delicious and simple chicken recipes? Look no further! This article presents 20 plain yet flavorful chicken recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From baked and grilled options to slow cooker and skillet dishes, there’s something for everyone. Recipes include Garlic Butter Baked Chicken, Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, Slow Cooker Plain Chicken Breast, and many more. Each recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making them perfect for busy home cooks. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to please.
