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Juicy, well-seasoned chicken breasts shouldn’t be complicated — and this garlic herb version proves it. With a simple pantry seasoning blend and three flexible cooking methods, this recipe is one you can rely on for busy weeknights, meal prep, or easy family dinners. Whether you prefer the stovetop, air fryer, or grill, this method focuses on locking in moisture and building flavor without fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses simple pantry seasonings you already have
- Works with three cooking methods depending on your kitchen setup
- Delivers juicy, flavorful chicken every time
- Easy to pair with rice, vegetables, salads, or wraps
- Family-friendly and great for leftovers
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Oil
- Garlic salt
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Italian seasoning
- Black pepper (optional)
See recipe card below for exact measurements.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or grill pan – For stovetop cooking
- Air fryer – Optional method for hands-off cooking
- Instant-Read Meat Thermometer – Ensures chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking (I recommended the ThermoPro TP19H)
- Tongs – For easy flipping
How to Make Juicy Garlic Herb Chicken Breasts
The key to juicy chicken is even seasoning, proper heat, and knowing exactly when to stop cooking. Start by massaging the oil and seasonings directly into the chicken. This helps the spices adhere evenly and bloom while resting in the fridge.
No matter which cooking method you choose, cook the chicken just until it reaches 165°F internally. An instant-read thermometer removes the guesswork and prevents overcooking — especially important when working with lean chicken breasts.
- Skillet: Medium heat creates a golden crust while butter and oil help retain moisture.
- Air Fryer: Hot circulating air cooks the chicken evenly with minimal effort.
- Grill: Direct heat adds light char and classic grilled flavor.
Allow the chicken to rest before slicing so the juices redistribute throughout the meat.
Seasoning the chicken in a zip-top bag helps evenly coat the meat with oil and spices, locking in flavor before cooking.
Listen for the sizzle — that sound tells you the pan is hot enough to create a golden crust while sealing in moisture.
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PrintJuicy Garlic Herb Chicken Breasts
Juicy garlic herb chicken breasts seasoned with pantry spices and cooked until golden and tender. This versatile recipe works perfectly in a skillet, air fryer, or on the grill for an easy, family-friendly dinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Marinate Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 8-15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: about 4 servings
- Category: Chicken, Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 TBSP oil
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1½ tsp paprika
- 1½ TBSP Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp black pepper (optional)
Instructions
Prep (All Methods)
- Place the chicken breasts in a gallon zip-top bag.
- Add oil and all seasonings.
- Seal and massage the bag with your hands for 3 minutes, pressing the seasonings evenly into the chicken.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).
Skillet (Pan-Fried) Method
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 TBSP oil and 1 TBSP butter to the pan.
- Once hot, add chicken breasts and cook 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.
- Flip once, allowing a golden crust to form.
- Chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Air Fryer Method
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
- Place chicken breasts in the basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for doneness — internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Grill Method
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
- Lightly oil grill grates.
- Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, lid closed.
- Remove when internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest 5 minutes before slicing.
Notes
-
Cook time will vary based on chicken thickness.
-
Resting the chicken before slicing helps keep it juicy.
-
This chicken pairs well with rice, roasted vegetables, salads, or wraps.
Tips for Success
- Pound thicker chicken breasts slightly for even cooking
- Always rest the chicken before slicing
- Use a thermometer instead of relying on cook time alone
Storage & Reheating
Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the air fryer at 350°F until warmed through.
Variations & Serving Ideas
- Serve over seasoned rice, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables
- Slice and use in salads or wraps
- Pair with a simple side like our Homemade Seasoned Rice or Easy Dutch Oven Cheesy Bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F at the thickest part.
Can I skip the marinade time?
Yes, but resting the chicken for at least 30–60 minutes improves flavor and moisture.
Final Thoughts
This juicy garlic herb chicken is a reliable, go-to recipe you can customize and cook your way. Simple ingredients, flexible methods, and consistent results make it a staple worth keeping on rotation.
If you make it please consider leaving a review. We love to see your posts! Tag us on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok! @ourgratefulkitchen
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