Different ways to cook chicken breast
Chicken breast is a versatile and healthy protein that can be the star of countless delicious dishes. It's a lifesaver for busy individuals; after a long day at work, it defrosts quickly and cooks in no time. Plus, it requires minimal prep. Not to mention that skinless chicken breast is a ZeroPoint food at WeightWatchers®. ZeroPoint foods are nutritional powerhouses that you can reach for frequently and consistently, without weighing, measuring, or tracking them. In this article, we’ll explore seven creative and mouthwatering methods to cook chicken breast.
1. Baked chicken breast
Baking chicken breast is a simple yet effective way to achieve a tender and juicy result. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavourful and healthy meal.
Place skinless chicken breast on a baking tray lined with a sheet of baking paper and season with herbs and pepper. Try one of these two toppings to accompany the chicken. Simply spray the suggested topping with oil and bake with chicken:
- Halved cherry tomatoes, sliced fennel, slivered garlic and fresh thyme for a distinct Mediterranean flavour.
- Zucchini strips, fresh thyme and some crumbled reduced-fat feta.
Bake in a 210°C oven for about 20 minutes.
More baked chicken breast recipes:
2. Spice rubbed chicken breast
Adding a spice rub to chicken breast is an excellent way to infuse it with bold flavours and a delightful aroma. This method is quick, easy and perfect for those who love a bit of zest in their meals.
Grind dried spices and herbs in a spice grinder or in a clean coffee grinder. Our favourite combinations are:
- Coriander seeds, cumin seeds, turmeric, paprika and cinnamon.
- Cumin, paprika, chilli powder, oregano and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Massage the mixture into the chicken, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or up to 12 hours. Spray chicken with oil then grill or sauté for 15-20 minutes over medium-high heat, or until just cooked through. Set aside to rest for 5 minutes.
More spice rubbed chicken breast recipes:
3. Chicken roulade
Chicken roulade might be considered a bit retro, but it has a timeless appeal that keeps it relevant in modern times. This surprisingly simple dish involves rolling chicken breast around a flavorful filling.
Arrange chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap, then beat breast to a 1 cm thickness with a heavy-based saucepan, rolling pin or meat mallet. Spread one of these two mixtures over the breasts:
- Baby spinach leaves, dill and Dijon mustard.
- Chopped fresh rocket leaves, halved cherry tomatoes and rosemary.
Spray a casserole dish with oil spray. Roll chicken with the filling inside. Secure with some toothpicks or shortened bamboo skewers and place seam-side-down in the casserole dish. Bake at 210°C for approximately 25 minutes, basting them twice with a little chicken stock.
More chicken roulade recipes:
4. Stir-fried chicken breast
This technique is perfect for busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast.
Cut chicken into strips. Spray a non-stick wok or non-stick frying pan with oil. Add crushed garlic, grated ginger and chopped shallots over high heat. Add chicken strips, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce and 2 tablespoons soy sauce. Stir-fry for 2 minutes. Toss in sliced carrots, broccoli florets or bok choy and continue stir-frying for 2 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
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5. Chicken breast with marinade
Marinating chicken breast infuses it with flavour and helps keep it tender and juicy during cooking.
Choose from a variety of marinades such as a zesty lemon herb blend with garlic and fresh thyme, an Asian-inspired mixture featuring soy sauce, honey and ginger, or a spicy Cajun option with lime and Cajun seasoning. Simply coat the chicken evenly, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, then grill, sauté, or bake until cooked through.
6. Steamed chicken breast
Steaming chicken breast is a gentle cooking method that helps retain its natural moisture while keeping it tender and healthy.
Slice skinless chicken breast into thin strips and steam them with your favourite vegetables and an aromatic herb. For an Asian twist, try snow peas, shiitake mushrooms and crushed lemongrass. Discard the lemongrass before serving and sprinkle with fresh coriander.
More steamed chicken recipes:
7. Chicken breast kebabs
Chicken breast kebabs are perfect for outdoor grilling or indoor cooking on a grill pan. They offer a flavourful and colourful meal that’s easy to customise with your favourite marinades and vegetables.
Cut the chicken into 3 cm cubes then slide them onto metal skewers or pre-soaked wooden skewers. Add your vegetables of choice: Onion wedges, green capsicum cubes or quartered yellow squash. Brush chicken with a marinade made from 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon sumac. Grill or pan-fry the skewers for 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through. Squeeze with a little lemon juice and sprinkle with chopped coriander or parsley.
More kabab recipes:
Expert tips
- Don't poke chicken breast with a fork. Use tongs or a metal spatula to turn chicken over the heat. Every hole in the meat allows moisture to escape which will stew the meat, making it tough.
- Salt chicken breast at the end. Salt pulls out moisture, so if you need to add salt at all, only add it to a completed chicken dish, just before serving.
- Let them rest. After the cooking is done, let chicken sit at room temperature for five minutes before serving so that the natural juices can be absorbed back into the meat.