Easy 4 Ingredient Chicken Breast Recipes You’ll Love

4-Ingredient Ranch Chicken Breasts

My family can’t get enough. This recipe is a weeknight winner!

This recipe takes ordinary chicken breasts and elevates them to a whole new level of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 large)
• 3 green onions
• 3/4 cup low-fat buttermilk
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable or avocado oil
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional, for the sauce)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the chicken breasts:

   • Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create 4 cutlets.
   • Place the cutlets between two large pieces of parchment paper and pound each lightly to 1/4-inch thickness. This ensures even cooking and helps the chicken stay tender.
   • Transfer the chicken cutlets to a gallon-size zip-top bag.

2. Make the marinade:

   • Thinly slice the green onions, setting the dark green parts aside for garnishing.
   • In a small food processor or blender, combine the white and light green parts of the green onions, buttermilk, and garlic. Blend until smooth.
   • Pro Tip: Reserve 3 tablespoons of the marinade before adding the chicken. This will be used to make a delicious ranch sauce for serving.
   • Pour the remaining marinade into the bag with the chicken. Seal the bag tightly and turn to coat the chicken evenly.
   • Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor.

3. Cook the chicken:

   • Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable or avocado oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.
   • Once the oil is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess. Discard the used marinade.
   • Place the chicken in the skillet and season the tops with salt and pepper.
   • Cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   • Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

4. Make the sauce (optional):

   • In a small bowl, combine the reserved marinade with 1/4 cup of mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well.

5. Serve:

   • Garnish the chicken with the sauce and the sliced dark green parts of the green onions.

Serving Suggestions:

• Ranch Style: Serve the chicken with roasted potatoes and broccoli, drizzling the ranch sauce over everything.
• Salad: Slice the chicken and add it to your favorite salad for a protein boost.
• Sandwiches: Use the chicken to make delicious sandwiches or wraps.
• Tacos: Dice the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos with your favorite toppings.

Tips and Tricks:

• Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make your own by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or ¹ vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it curdles slightly.  
  1 kitchenguides.org

  kitchenguides.org
• Chive Substitute: For a different flavor, try substituting the green onions with 2-3 tablespoons of chopped chives.
• Make-Ahead: You can marinate the chicken up to 8 hours in advance, making this a great option for busy weeknights.
• Storage: Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Information: (per serving)

• Calories: 311
• Fat: 10g
• Carbs: 2g
• Protein: 50g

Enjoy!

Nutrition Benefits

• Chicken breasts are a powerful source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Olive oil contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels.
• Herbs and spices not only elevate the flavor but also provide a range of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
• This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for low-carb diets.

This recipe is not only nourishing but it also opens a world of possibilities. You can easily elevate the flavors or pair the chicken with various sides to create a complete meal that excites the palate!

Possible Additions or Upgrades

Here are some fun ideas to enhance or modify this dish:

• Add fresh lemon juice or zest for a refreshing twist.
• Include a side of roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious choice.
• Serve the chicken on a bed of quinoa or brown rice for a heartier presentation.
• Top the chicken with avocado slices or a sprinkle of feta cheese for added creaminess.
• Incorporate a spicy element such as chili flakes or hot sauce to wake up the flavors.

I genuinely love sharing these recipes with friends and family, and I encourage you to gather around the table, create memories, and savor every delicious bite eaten together. Cooking is more than just a task; it’s a celebration of flavors and connections!

FAQs:

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs. Keep in mind that chicken thighs have more fat than chicken breasts, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: What can I substitute for the green onions?

A: You can use chives or shallots as a substitute for green onions.

Q: Can I make this recipe without a food processor?

A: Yes, you can finely mince the green onions and garlic with a knife instead of using a food processor.

Q: How long can I marinate the chicken?

A: You can marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze the cooked chicken?

A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Enjoy!