Learn to grill chicken breast on stove with our detailed recipe and tips
Stovetop Grilled Chicken Breast: A Flavorful Shortcut
Craving the smoky char of grilled chicken without the fuss of firing up the barbecue? Stovetop grilling is the answer! This method delivers perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken breast in a fraction of the time.
You’ll get those beautiful grill marks and a tender, juicy interior, all from the comfort of your kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Season your chicken with your favorite spices or marinades, and let your culinary creativity run wild.
This recipe will guide you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you achieve restaurant-quality results at home.
Stovetop Grilled Chicken Breast Recipe
This simple recipe yields juicy and flavorful chicken breast, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (240g / 1 cup each)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat (180°C / 356°F).
- Season the chicken breasts with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the preheated skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C / 165°F.
- Brush the chicken with olive oil and garlic during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!
Ingredients Needed for Stovetop Grilled Chicken Breast
To make delicious stovetop grilled chicken breast, it’s essential to have the right ingredients. The key to a flavorful dish lies in the combination of chicken breast, seasonings, and marinade. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- 4 chicken breasts (1200 g / 2.64 lbs)
- 30 ml / 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 15 g / 1 tablespoon grilling seasonings (containing paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper)
- 15 g / 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 30 ml / 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 6 g / 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 3 g / 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 g / 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
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Optional ingredients:
- 10 g / 1 clove garlic, minced
- 10 g / 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 15 g / 1 tablespoon honey
These ingredients will help create a well-balanced flavor profile for your stovetop grilled chicken breast. Feel free to adjust the amount of seasonings and marinade ingredients according to your taste preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilling Chicken Breast on Stove
Enjoy restaurant-quality grilled chicken breast right at home with this easy stovetop method. Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken every time.
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Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
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Heat the Pan
Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil to the pan, allowing it to shimmer before adding the chicken.
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Sear the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until a golden-brown crust forms.
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Reduce Heat and Cook Through
Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
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Rest the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips for Grilling Chicken Breast on Stove
Mastering the art of stovetop grilling requires a combination of technique, patience, and practice. To ensure your chicken breast turns out juicy and flavorful, follow these expert tips:
- Pat dry before grilling: Remove excess moisture from the chicken breast by gently patting it with a paper towel. This helps create a crispy crust and promotes even cooking.
- Use the right pan: Choose a cast-iron or stainless steel pan with a non-stick coating. These materials retain heat well and prevent the chicken from sticking.
- Preheat and oil the pan: Heat the pan over medium-high heat (200°C / 392°F). Add a small amount of oil (e.g., olive or avocado oil) to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Don’t press down: Resist the temptation to press down on the chicken with your spatula, as this can squeeze out juices and make the breast dense.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
- Overcooking: Cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Underseasoning: Season the chicken liberally with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices before grilling.
By following these pro tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfectly grilled chicken breast on the stovetop.
Substitutions and Alternatives for Stovetop Grilled Chicken Breast
When grilling chicken breast on the stovetop, there are several ingredient substitutions and alternatives to consider. For chicken breast, 240 g / 1 cup of turkey breast or pork tenderloin can be used as a substitute, offering a similar texture and flavor profile.
- Olive oil can be replaced with 60 ml / 1/4 cup of avocado oil or grapeseed oil, which have a higher smoke point and neutral flavor.
- Garlic powder can be substituted with 2.5 ml / 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder or 1.25 ml / 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, adding a distinct flavor to the dish.
- For a spicy kick, 1.25 ml / 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or 2.5 ml / 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika can be added to the seasoning blend.
These substitutions and alternatives can enhance the flavor and texture of the stovetop grilled chicken breast, allowing for grilling variations that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Flavor Your Way: Variations on Stovetop Grilled Chicken Breast
Stovetop grilling is a fantastic way to get those delicious char marks and juicy results without firing up the BBQ. But why stop at plain chicken? Here are some flavor variations to elevate your next meal:
Mediterranean Magic
- Marinate chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for 30 minutes.
- Grill as directed, then top with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley.
Spicy Southwest
- Rub chicken with a blend of chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Grill for a few minutes longer to allow the spices to bloom, about 6-8 minutes per side.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or avocado crema.
Asian-Inspired
- Marinate chicken in soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill until cooked through, then drizzle with extra sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Storing and Reheating Stovetop Grilled Chicken Breast
After grilling your chicken breast on the stovetop, it’s essential to store and reheat it safely to maintain its freshness and quality.
Storing Grilled Chicken Breast
- Let the chicken breast cool completely to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
- Store the cooled chicken breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator at 4°C (39°F) or below for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, place the chicken breast in a freezer-safe bag or container and store it at -18°C (0°F) or below for up to 3 months.
Reheating Grilled Chicken Breast
- Reheat the chicken breast to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to ensure food safety.
- Use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken breast.
- Reheat the chicken breast in the oven at 190°C (375°F) or on the stovetop over low heat, covered with a lid, until heated through.
Remember to always check the chicken breast for any signs of spoilage before consuming it.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Stovetop Grilled Chicken Breast
Grilling chicken breast on the stovetop can be a bit tricky, but don’t worry, most issues can be easily resolved. Here are some common problems that may arise and their fixes:
- Undercooked or overcooked chicken: Ensure the chicken breast is cooked to an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F. Use a thermometer to check the temperature, especially when cooking to a specific level of doneness.
- Chicken breast sticking to the pan: Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken, and use a small amount of oil (about 15 ml / 1 tablespoon) to prevent sticking. Also, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before grilling.
- Chicken breast not browning evenly: Use a cast-iron or stainless steel pan, as these retain heat well and can achieve a nice brown crust. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan, cook the chicken breast one at a time if necessary.
- Chicken breast becoming too dry: Don’t overcook the chicken, and make sure to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Also, use a marinade or brine with ingredients like buttermilk or yogurt to keep the chicken moist.
By following these tips, you can achieve perfectly grilled chicken breast on the stovetop every time. Remember to stay attentive and adjust the heat as needed to prevent common issues from arising.
Nutritional Information for Stovetop Grilled Chicken Breast
Stovetop grilled chicken breast is a lean and delicious protein source packed with essential nutrients.
Each serving (approximately 150g/5.3oz) provides:
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
This versatile protein is naturally gluten-free and a great source of niacin, vitamin B6, and selenium. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Diet Tags: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
- Can I use a non-stick pan to grill chicken breast on the stove? Yes, a non-stick pan is a great option as it prevents the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- How do I prevent the chicken breast from drying out while grilling on the stove? To prevent dryness, make sure to not overcook the chicken, and use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Can I add marinades or seasonings to the chicken breast before grilling on the stove? Yes, you can add your favorite marinades or seasonings to the chicken breast before grilling, but make sure to pat the chicken dry with a paper towel first to help the seasonings stick.
- How do I achieve nice grill marks on the chicken breast when grilling on the stove? To achieve nice grill marks, use a hot pan with a small amount of oil, and don’t move the chicken breast too much while it’s grilling – let it sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side.
Frequently Asked Questions about Stovetop Grilled Chicken Breast
Get the answers to your burning questions about grilling chicken breast on the stovetop.
Q: What’s the best way to prevent chicken breast from sticking to the pan?
A: To prevent chicken breast from sticking, make sure the pan is hot, and the chicken is dry. Add a small amount of oil to the pan, and then place the chicken. You can also use a non-stick pan or brush the chicken with oil before cooking.
Q: How do I achieve a nice sear on the stovetop?
A: To achieve a nice sear, make sure the pan is hot, and the chicken is at room temperature. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). Reduce heat to finish cooking.
Q: Can I grill chicken breast on medium heat?
A: While it’s technically possible, grilling chicken breast on medium heat can result in a less tender and less flavorful dish. For best results, use high heat to achieve a nice sear and tender interior.
Key Takeaways for Perfect Stovetop Grilled Chicken Breast
To achieve delicious stovetop grilled chicken breast, several key factors must be considered. First, proper heating is essential, with the stovetop grill or skillet preheated to a medium-high heat of 200°C / 400°F. This ensures a nice sear on the chicken.
- Even cooking is crucial, which can be achieved by cooking the chicken breast for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F.
- Marination or seasoning enhances flavor, with a minimum of 30 minutes marination time recommended for optimal taste.
- Using the right amount of oil, about 15 ml / 1 tablespoon, prevents the chicken from sticking to the skillet.
By following these key takeaways and techniques, a perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful stovetop grilled chicken breast can be achieved. Remember to not overcrowd the skillet, cooking in batches if necessary, to ensure each chicken breast cooks evenly.
Mastering Stovetop Grilled Chicken Breast
With this stovetop grilled chicken breast recipe, you’ll unlock a world of flavorful and tender chicken dishes. Mastering this technique allows you to cook chicken to perfection every time, with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
By trying this recipe, you’ll gain confidence in your stovetop cooking skills and be able to experiment with new flavors and marinades. Don’t stop here – explore our other stovetop recipes, like pan-seared salmon or skillet-roasted vegetables, to take your cooking to the next level.
