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A collection of quick chicken recipes featuring common ingredients.

Classic Quick Chicken Recipes with Simple Ingredients

Two delicious and quick chicken recipes using simple ingredients: Speedy Lemon Herb Chicken and Smoky Paprika Chicken Skillet. Perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Medium bowl

Ingredients
  

Speedy Lemon Herb Chicken

  • 1-1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs boneless, skinless, cut into ½-inch thick cutlets or bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil for cooking and marinade
  • 1 Lemons for juice and zest
  • 1 tsp Dried herbs e.g., oregano, thyme, or Italian blend
  • ½ tsp Garlic garlic powder or 1 minced clove
  • ½ tsp Salt
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper
  • Chicken broth optional, a splash for pan sauce
  • Fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Smoky Paprika Chicken Skillet

  • 1-1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 small Onion diced
  • 1 Bell pepper any color, chopped
  • 1 tbsp Smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder or 1-2 minced cloves
  • ½ tsp Cumin ground
  • ½ tsp Salt
  • ¼ tsp Black pepper
  • Canned diced tomatoes optional, drained
  • Fresh cilantro optional, for garnish

Instructions
 

Speedy Lemon Herb Chicken

  • If using chicken breasts, slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets, then pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  • In a bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, the juice and zest of half a lemon, 1 teaspoon dried herbs, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Once chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan. Optionally, deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or extra lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits; simmer for a minute.
  • Return chicken to the pan to coat or drizzle with the pan sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley if using.

Smoky Paprika Chicken Skillet

  • In a medium bowl, toss the cubed chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
  • Remove chicken from the pan and set aside. Add another splash of olive oil if needed, then add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  • Add the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes until slightly tender-crisp. Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables.
  • If using, stir in the drained diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine all ingredients and flavors.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Notes

For both recipes, ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.