73+ Recipes Using Chicken Breast

Welcome to our extensive collection of recipes using chicken breast, a versatile and lean protein perfect for countless dishes. Literally, countless!

With an array of flavors and ingredients to explore, you’ll never run out of ways to transform this humble cut into something extraordinary. 

From quick weeknight meals to elaborate dinner party creations, our carefully curated selection of recipes has something to offer for every palate, occasion, and culinary expertise.

Then let us know: What’s your favorite chicken recipe?

Asian-Inspired Recipes Using Chicken Breast

Empress Chicken

This Chinese Empress Chicken recipe is easy to make and super delicious. It’s tender and juicy, with the perfect amount of seasoning.

Chicken Stir-Fry

Savor this delectable chicken stir fry, bursting with tender chunks of chicken, crisp broccoli, and vibrant red bell peppers. Tossed in a mouthwatering sauce, each bite delivers a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. Indulge in this wholesome, colorful meal that’s both tasty and nutritious.

P.F. Chang’s Chicken Lettuce Wraps

This recipe is one of my personal favorites. It calls for ground chicken, but you can also use diced or leftover shredded chicken. Wrapped in large bib lettuce, it’s savory and healthy. It also tastes just like the restaurant version, if not better!

General Tso’s Chicken

It’s America’s go-to dish when it comes to takeout. General Tso’s Chicken is a sweet-spicy dish featuring tender, crispy chicken coated in a tangy sauce. Indulge in this Chinese-American classic for an unforgettable meal.

Chicken Teriyaki

Savor the flavors of Chicken Teriyaki: tender, juicy chicken glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, with hints of ginger & garlic. Enjoy over steamed rice, garnished with sesame seeds & scallions.

Sweet and Spicy Sticky Chicken

This one is for you if you are a fan of sweet and spicy recipes. This version is baked, not fried, and packed with incredible flavor. Serve with rice, or get creative and serve with something equally delicious like air fryer sweet potato or waffle fries! 

Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce

A Southeast Asian favorite featuring juicy, marinated skewers and a rich, creamy dip. Experience a burst of flavors with each savory bite.

Mexican-Inspired Recipes Using Chicken Breast

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Experience the zest and warmth of Chicken Tortilla Soup, a soul-soothing bowl brimming with tender chicken, hearty beans, and a medley of vibrant vegetables. This Mexican-inspired delight is simmered in a mildly spiced tomato-based broth, striking the perfect balance of flavors. By far, chicken tortilla soup is my favorite chicken soup recipe. 

Easy Mexican Rice with Chicken

This a quick and easy recipe for deliciously easy Mexican rice with chicken. 20 minutes is all you will need to prepare this hearty, satisfying meal.

Chicken Enchiladas

Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of Chicken Enchiladas, a beloved Mexican dish that features tender, shredded chicken wrapped in soft corn tortillas. Smothered in a luscious, tangy tomatillo or velvety red chili sauce and a generous helping of melted cheese, these enchiladas are baked to gooey, golden perfection.

Salad Recipes Using Chicken Breast

Waldorf Chicken Salad

Tender chicken breast, crisp apples, juicy grapes, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. This refreshing and versatile salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a delightful addition to any potluck or picnic spread.

Grilled Chicken and Kale Caesar Salad

 A refreshing twist on a classic featuring tender chicken, crisp kale, and a creamy dressing. Enjoy this satisfying, healthy meal option. Not a fan of traditional kale? There are so many kale options out there. My personal fave? Tuscan Kale. Give it a try!

Italian-Inspired Recipes Using Chicken Breast

Chicken Murphy

Savor this Italian-inspired creation with delectable flavors, succulent proteins, and tasty veggies. Really up your recipe game by serving over rice or pasta for a delicious and easy weeknight meal.

Ultra Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Savor the classic Italian flavors of Chicken Parmesan, a delectable dish featuring breaded chicken cutlets smothered in tangy marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of fragrant oregano. Infused with the rich aroma of garlic, this satisfying meal is baked to perfection in the oven, resulting in a beautiful golden crust and a tender, juicy interior. Serve with your choice of pasta.

Olive Garden Chicken Piccata

This Olive Garden Chicken Piccata recipe is a flavorful variation of the traditional recipe, thanks to sun-dried tomatoes, lemon, cream, and capers.

Classic American Recipes Using Chicken Breast

Chicken and Broccoli Pasta  Bake

The Chicken Bake is a scrumptious one-dish wonder featuring juicy marinated chicken nestled among fresh broccoli and creamy cheese. Perfectly seasoned with a blend of mouth-watering herbs and spices, this comforting meal is baked to golden perfection. Recipe tip: you can also use frozen broccoli.

Chicken Casserole

This hearty Chicken Casserole offers a delicious mix of tender chicken pieces, veggies, and a rich, creamy sauce. Baked until bubbling and topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. If you like this recipe, you also might like our list of summer casseroles. 

Sheet Pan Chicken with Rainbow Vegetables

Sheet Pan Chicken is the perfect weeknight dinner solution, combining succulent chicken, colorful veggies, and bold seasoning in a single pan. Quick to prepare and easy to clean up, this versatile and crowd-pleasing dish will become a staple in your meal rotation.

Creamy Garlic Skillet Chicken

Indulge in Creamy Garlic Skillet Chicken, showcasing succulent chicken enveloped in a smooth, garlicky sauce. This easy-to-make dish promises a flavorful and fulfilling weeknight dinner. Or even a romantic date night dinner!

Green Beans Casserole with Chicken Breast

Take this habit-forming green bean casserole with fried onions and cream sauce, and add protein punch with diced chicken breast. Green bean casserole is often served at Thanksgiving, but adding protein is a perfect side for those who aren’t fans of the traditional turkey bird.

Perfect Oven-Baked Chicken Breast

Savor the simplicity of Baked Chicken Breast, a classic dish boasting moist, tender meat with a crisp, flavorful exterior. Enhanced by warm spices like paprika. This dish proves that sometimes, less is more. I’m willing to go out there on a limb and say that this dish is both elegant and effortless (almost).

Instant Pot Recipes Using Chicken Breasts

Mississippi Chicken

There are so many ways to cook chicken, but cooking chicken breasts in my Instant Pot is probably my favorite way. This recipe is so easy you’ll think I forgot a few instructions! It can easily be made with either chicken breast or thighs.

Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy

Indulge in the rich, savory comfort of Instant Pot Chicken and Gravy, a dish that combines tender, succulent chicken with a velvety, flavorful sauce seasoned with black pepper to taste. This delightful, easy-to-prepare meal goes perfectly with your favorite glass of white wine and will impress at the dinner table.

What to Serve with Chicken Breasts

Chipotle Veggies

Ranch Potatoes

Red Lobster Stuffed Mushrooms

Redneck Caviar

Chicken Breast Recipe FAQs

How do restaurants make chicken breast so tender?

Restaurants make chicken breast tender using a few techniques:

1. Brining: Soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution to help it retain moisture and stay juicy during cooking.
2. Pounding: Flattening the chicken to an even thickness ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking.
3. Marinating: Using acidic ingredients, such as vinegar or citrus juice, to break down proteins and tenderize the chicken.
4. Cooking methods: Gentle, controlled cooking methods like sous vide, poaching, or baking at low temperatures help maintain tenderness.
5. Resting: Allowing the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before cutting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender bite.

What is the healthiest way to cook chicken breast?

The healthiest way to cook chicken breast is by using a method that minimizes the addition of fats and retains its natural nutrients. Grilling, poaching, or baking (without adding excessive oil or butter) are considered healthy cooking methods. These techniques cook the chicken evenly, preserve its moisture and tenderness, and allow the natural flavors to shine without the need for excess fat or calorie-dense ingredients.

Why is my chicken always dry when I cook it?

If your chicken always turns out dry when you cook it, there could be a few reasons:

1. Overcooking: Chicken, especially chicken breast, is a lean meat with little fat, which can become dry if cooked for too long. Overcooking causes the proteins in the meat to tighten, squeezing out the natural moisture.
2. High heat: Cooking your chicken breast at too high temperatures can cause the chicken to lose moisture quickly. This, of course, leads to a dry texture. 
3. Not resting the chicken: After cooking, it’s essential to let your chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender, moister meat.
4. Lack of marination or brining: Marinating or brining your chicken before cooking can help retain moisture and enhance flavor. An acidic marinade or a saltwater brine can tenderize the meat and lock in moisture.

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Have questions or suggestions about these recipes using chicken breast? Leave them in the comments below.