Easy Chicken Breast
Juicy chicken breast cooked in butter with wine and herbs, resulting in a flavorful, tender dish perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Skin and debone the chicken breast after splitting it in two.
- Pound the chicken breasts with a saucer or meat tenderizer until even in thickness.
- Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt and ground basil.
- Fry the chicken in preheated butter until the pink color disappears.
- Reduce heat to simmer and pour the cooking wine and water over the chicken.
- Simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes.
- Make gravy with the cooking juice and pour over the meat before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the cooking wine and spices for at least an hour before cooking. If you don't have cooking wine, substitute with chicken broth or white grape juice mixed with a bit of vinegar. Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking, which helps in avoiding dryness, making this recipe a great choice for beginners exploring American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken breast sliced, drizzled with the savory gravy, alongside mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or can be served over rice for a heartier option. For a delightful twist, try it with a side of Autumn Harvest Bisque to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 1-2 minutes, covered, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Chicken Breast contains roughly 165 calories, with 17g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (87% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (67% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 684mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I use instead of butter?
If you're looking for a healthier option, olive oil or coconut oil can be used instead of butter. Both alternatives will still provide a nice flavor and help achieve a golden-brown crust on the chicken. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter or oil.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms during the simmering process can enhance the dish's flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pan with the cooking wine and water for a delicious one-pan meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).