Ingredients
Scale
For the Thin Sliced Chicken Breast:
- 1 lb Thin Sliced Chicken Breast (or 2 regular chicken breasts, pounded to ¼-inch thickness)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil for high-heat searing)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Lemon-Herb Marinade:
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (or lime juice for a tangy twist)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme or rosemary (or 1 tsp dried herbs)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (sub with cumin for earthy warmth)
- Optional: 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup ([quinoa alternatives for grain bowls]: skip for sugar-free)
Optional Serving Suggestions:
- Greens: Baby spinach, arugula, or massaged kale
- Grains: Cooked quinoa, couscous ([quinoa alternatives for grain bowls]), or cauliflower rice
- Toppings: Sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or pickled onions
- Dressing: A drizzle of best balsamic vinegar or tahini sauce
Substitutions & Tips:
- No fresh herbs? Use ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning.
- Heat lovers: Add ½ tsp chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Dairy-free? Skip cheese toppings; opt for nutritional yeast or avocado.
Teaser: Wait until you see how the marinade transforms this humble protein—plus, learn how to repurpose leftovers into next-day lunches without a flavor slump!
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Thin Sliced Chicken Breast
- Pound (if needed): If using regular chicken breasts, place them between parchment paper and pound to ¼-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Pat dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture—this ensures a crispy sear.
Step 2: Marinate for Flavor
- Whisk marinade: In a bowl, combine ¼ cup lemon juice, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp herbs, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. (Tip: Add chili flakes or honey here for heat/sweetness!)
- Coat chicken: Submerge the Thin Sliced Chicken Breast in the marinade. Let sit 10+ minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
Step 3: Sear to Perfection
- Heat skillet: Warm 1 tbsp olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Cook chicken: Add the Thin Sliced Chicken Breast in a single layer. Sear 3–4 minutes per side until golden-brown and internal temp hits 165°F. (Sensory cue: Listen for a steady sizzle!)
- Garlic finish: In the last minute, toss minced garlic into the pan for a fragrant crust.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Rest: Transfer chicken to a plate, tent with foil, and let rest 5 minutes—this locks in juices.
- Slice & plate: Cut into strips and serve over greens, grains, or in wraps. (LSI tip: Pair with how to roast vegetables perfectly for a complete meal!)
Pro Tips:
- No marinade time? Rub spices directly onto the chicken before cooking.
- Double batches: Cook extra Thin Sliced Chicken Breast for meal prep—reheat in a pan or air fryer to retain crispness.
Teaser: Master the golden sear and learn how to repurpose leftovers into next-day salads or wraps without sacrificing texture!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (includes marinating)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 195 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Thin Sliced Chicken Breast