There's nothing quite like having a few reliable thin cut chicken breast recipes in your cooking arsenal. These versatile, lean cuts of meat are a weeknight dinner hero, cooking up in minutes while still delivering restaurant-quality results. Whether you're a busy parent or just someone who loves efficient, delicious cooking, these foolproof recipes will become your go-to dinner solutions.

Why Thin Cut Chicken Breasts Recipe Are Perfect for Quick Meals

Thin cut chicken breasts, also known as chicken cutlets, are the secret weapon of efficient home cooks. These slender pieces of chicken are either butterflied or sliced from regular chicken breasts, resulting in meat that cooks evenly and quickly. They're perfect for everything from classic Italian dishes to modern healthy bowls.

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Why Thin Cut Chicken Breasts Recipe Are Perfect for Quick Meals
Ingredients
Instructions
Cooking Process
Finishing
Helpful Cooking Tips
Recipe Variations
Equipment For Thin Cut Chicken Breast Recipes
Storage Instructions
Top Tip
FAQ
Related
Pairing
Easy Thin Cut Chicken Breast Recipe

Ingredients

4 thin cut chicken breasts (about ¼ inch thick)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon sea salt

¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons butter

Fresh lemon wedges for serving

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

Pat the thin cut chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure perfect browning
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
Season both sides of each chicken breast evenly with the spice mixture

Cooking Process

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering
Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd
Cook for 3-4 minutes on the first side until golden brown
Flip the chicken and add butter to the pan
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C)
Baste the chicken with the melted butter during the final minute of cooking

Finishing

Remove chicken from the pan and let rest for 2-3 minutes
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges

Helpful Cooking Tips

Ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken to achieve the perfect golden crust
Don't move the chicken around while cooking; let it develop a nice sear
Use an instant-read thermometer for perfectly cooked chicken every time
If your chicken breasts aren't even thickness, give them a quick pound with a meat mallet

Recipe Variations

Mediterranean Style

Transform this basic recipe by adding:

Fresh chopped oregano
Crumbled feta cheese
Cherry tomatoes
Kalamata olives

Lemon Herb Version

Create a bright, fresh variation by adding:

Extra lemon zest
Fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage)
White wine sauce

Asian-Inspired

Give it an Asian twist with:

Soy sauce
Ginger
Sesame oil
Green onions

Equipment For Thin Cut Chicken Breast Recipes

Large skillet or frying pan (12-inch recommended)
Instant-read meat thermometer
Paper towels
Tongs for flipping
Meat mallet (if needed for evening out thickness)

Storage Instructions

Store cooled leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
To freeze, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months
Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water, or in the microwave at 50% power

Top Tip

Never overcook! Thin cut chicken breasts can go from perfect to dry very quickly
Let the chicken come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking
Season generously - the thin cut means more surface area for flavoring
If breading, use a light coating to maintain the quick-cooking benefit

FAQ

What is the best way to cook thin sliced chicken breast?

The best way is to pan-fry in a hot skillet. Cook 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don't overcook! They're done when the inside reaches 165°F.

What is thin cut chicken breast called?

They're most commonly called chicken cutlets. You might also see them labeled as chicken scallopini at the store or on restaurant menus.

How do you keep thin chicken breasts from drying out?

Don't overcook - they only need about 3-4 minutes per side
Cook at medium-high heat to get a quick sear
Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking

What is the difference between chicken cutlet and thin breast?

They're basically the same thing, just different names. A cutlet is usually made by butterflying a regular chicken breast or pounding it thin, while thin-sliced breast might come pre-sliced from the store. Both cook the same way and can be used in the same recipes.

Thin cut chicken breasts are a cook's best friend. They cook in just 6-8 minutes total, work with any seasoning, and are perfect for quick, healthy meals. The secret to success? Hot pan, quick cooking time (3-4 minutes per side), and don't overcook. Whether you're a beginner or expert cook, these versatile cuts will help you get a delicious dinner on the table fast.

Give this recipe a try and share your experience in the comments below!

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Pairing

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