Olivia Carter
If you’re craving juicy and flavorful grilled chicken but don’t have access to a barbecue grill, don’t worry! Making grilled chicken on a skillet is a fantastic alternative that will still give you that delicious smoky taste. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a last-minute gathering with friends.
To make grilled chicken on a skillet, all you need is a boneless, skinless chicken breast, a good marinade, and a trusty skillet. The marinade will not only infuse the chicken with incredible flavors but also help tenderize it. You can use store-bought marinades or create your own using a combination of herbs, spices, and oils. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors!
Before you start cooking, it’s important to properly prepare the skillet. Preheat it over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking. Once the skillet is hot, carefully place the chicken breast in the skillet and let it cook undisturbed for about 6-8 minutes per side. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken, so make sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Preparation Steps
Step 1:
Start by marinating the chicken. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken in the bowl and toss to coat it evenly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2:
Preheat the skillet over medium heat. Make sure it is well-greased to prevent sticking.
Step 3:
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken on the preheated skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
Step 4:
While the chicken is cooking, preheat the grill pan or outdoor grill. This will be used to give the chicken those signature grill marks and a smoky flavor.
Step 5:
Once the chicken is cooked on the skillet, transfer it to the preheated grill pan or outdoor grill. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes per side, or until desired grill marks are achieved.
Step 6:
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a moist and flavorful result.
Step 7:
Serve the grilled chicken on a platter, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy it hot with your favorite side dishes!
Gather Ingredients
Before you start grilling chicken on a skillet, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Chicken: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, whichever you prefer.
2. Marinade: Prepare a marinade of your choice. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own using olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices.
3. Seasonings: Gather your favorite seasonings, such as salt, pepper, paprika, and any other spices you enjoy.
4. Skillet: Make sure you have a good quality skillet that is large enough to accommodate the chicken pieces.
5. Cooking oil: Choose a cooking oil with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil, for frying the chicken.
6. Tongs or spatula: You’ll need a utensil to flip the chicken while cooking.
7. Thermometer: Having a kitchen thermometer handy will help you ensure that the chicken is cooked to the correct internal temperature.
8. Serving suggestions: Think about what you’d like to serve with your grilled chicken, such as a salad, vegetables, or rice.
Once you have all these ingredients ready, you’re all set to start making delicious grilled chicken on a skillet!
Marinate the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is an essential step that adds flavor and tenderizes the meat. Follow these simple steps to marinate your chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into even pieces.
- In a bowl, combine your choice of marinade ingredients. This can include olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer.
- Place the chicken pieces in a ziplock bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- If marinating for longer than 30 minutes, turn the chicken pieces occasionally to ensure even marination.
Notes:
Marinating the chicken for longer periods, such as overnight, can enhance the flavors even further.
Always marinate the chicken in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Preheat the Skillet
Before you start grilling your chicken on the skillet, it’s important to preheat it. This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that delicious grilled flavor.
To preheat the skillet, place it on the stovetop over medium-high heat. Allow the skillet to heat up for about 5 minutes until it becomes hot.
You can test if the skillet is hot enough by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the surface. If the drops sizzle and evaporate immediately, then the skillet is ready to use.
Make sure to use a skillet that is large enough to fit all of your chicken pieces comfortably. You don’t want them to overcrowd the pan as this can prevent them from cooking properly.
Cook the Chicken
Now that the chicken is marinated and ready to go, it’s time to cook it on the skillet. Follow these steps to achieve deliciously grilled chicken:
Step 1: Preheat the Skillet
Before you start cooking the chicken, preheat the skillet over medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken gets a nice sear and cooks evenly.
Step 2: Add Oil to the Skillet
Add a tablespoon of oil to the preheated skillet and swirl it around to coat the bottom evenly. This will prevent the chicken from sticking to the pan and also help to achieve a crispy exterior.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken thighs in the skillet, skin-side down. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-6 minutes, or until the skin is browned and crispy.
Then, flip the chicken thighs over using tongs and cook for another 5-6 minutes on the other side. The chicken should be cooked through and have an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).
Keep an eye on the chicken while it cooks to prevent it from burning. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a steady medium-high temperature.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
Serve the grilled chicken on a plate, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired. It pairs well with a side of grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your homemade grilled chicken hot off the skillet!
Serving Suggestions
Grilled chicken on skillet is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
1. Chicken Caesar Salad
Slice the grilled chicken and toss it with crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, grated Parmesan cheese, and a tangy Caesar dressing. This classic salad is a perfect light and refreshing option.
2. Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Place the grilled chicken on a toasted bun and add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, avocado, and mayonnaise. You can also melt some cheese on top of the chicken for an extra indulgent sandwich.
These serving suggestions will complement the flavors of the grilled chicken and provide a satisfying and delicious meal. Enjoy!
Pair with Roasted Vegetables
Grilled chicken is a versatile and delicious main course that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. One of the best options to complement the smoky flavor of grilled chicken is roasted vegetables. The combination of tender chicken and caramelized vegetables creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
To make roasted vegetables, start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Choose a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and red onions. Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season them with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices. Toss the vegetables to coat them evenly with the oil and seasoning. Spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Roast the vegetables in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and golden brown. Make sure to stir them occasionally to ensure even cooking. The roasting process will enhance the natural sweetness of the vegetables and add a delicious charred flavor.
Once the roasted vegetables are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them alongside the grilled chicken for a colorful and nutritious meal. The combination of the juicy chicken and the flavorful vegetables will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Whether you’re grilling chicken on a skillet or a barbecue, pairing it with roasted vegetables is a winning choice. This side dish is not only easy to make but also packed with vitamins and minerals. So next time you fire up the grill, don’t forget to roast some vegetables to complete your meal.
FAQ
What ingredients do I need to make grilled chicken on skillet?
To make grilled chicken on skillet, you will need the following ingredients:
Can I use boneless chicken breasts to make grilled chicken on skillet?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken breasts to make grilled chicken on skillet. It is actually a popular choice for this recipe.
