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Welcome to a simple yet delicious recipe for Pan Fried Diced Chicken Breast! This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can create a flavorful and juicy chicken dish that pairs well with almost any side. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be used in salads, wraps, or served over rice or pasta. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love Pan Fried Diced Chicken Breast

Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a delicious meal ready in just 15 minutes.
Versatile: The pan fried diced chicken breast can be served in many ways. Add it to salads, mix it with pasta, or use it in wraps for a variety of meals.
Flavorful: The combination of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. You can also customize the seasonings to suit your taste.
Healthy: Chicken breast is a lean source of protein, making this dish a healthy option. It’s also gluten-free and low-carb, fitting well into various dietary preferences.
Juicy and Tender: Cooking the chicken over medium-high heat and stirring frequently ensures that it stays juicy and tender, not dry or overcooked.

Ingredients For Pan Fried Diced Chicken Breast

Chicken Breast: The star of the dish, diced into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
Olive Oil: Adds flavor and helps cook the chicken evenly. You can use avocado oil or any oil you prefer.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the chicken.
Black Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the seasoning.
Garlic Powder: Provides a rich, savory flavor that complements the chicken.
Paprika: Adds color and a mild, smoky flavor to the dish.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Pan-Fried Diced Chicken Breast

Frying Pan: A non-stick frying pan is ideal for cooking the chicken evenly and preventing it from sticking.
Spatula: Essential for stirring the chicken as it cooks to ensure even browning and prevent burning.
Measuring Spoons: To accurately measure the seasonings for perfect flavor.
Instant-Read Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.

How To Make Pan Fried Diced Chicken Breast

Prepare the Chicken: Dice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
Heat the Oil: Add olive oil to a non-stick frying pan and heat over high heat until the oil starts to sizzle.
Add the Chicken: Place the diced chicken in the pan.
Season the Chicken: Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly with the seasonings.
Cook the Chicken: Once the oil is sizzling, reduce the heat to medium-high. Cook, stirring every minute, for about 6-7 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Check the Temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Over Rice: Serve the pan-fried diced chicken breast over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a simple and satisfying meal.
With Pasta: Mix the chicken with your favorite pasta and a light sauce, such as garlic and olive oil or a creamy Alfredo, for a hearty dish. Try also arugula pasta, a quick creamy pasta recipe, or shrimp pasta.
In Wraps: Use the chicken as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, adding fresh veggies and a drizzle of your favorite dressing.
In Salads: Toss the chicken with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette for a light and refreshing salad.
With Stir-Fried Vegetables: Pair the chicken with stir-fried vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a colorful and nutritious meal.

Tips For Success

Uniform Size: Ensure the chicken pieces are cut into uniform sizes to promote even cooking. This prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
Preheat the Pan: Allow the oil to heat up fully before adding the chicken. This helps in achieving a nice sear and keeps the chicken from sticking to the pan.
Do Not Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, leading to a less crispy texture.
Season Generously: Don’t be afraid to season the chicken well. If you find it needs more flavor, you can always add a bit more salt and pepper at the end.
Stir Frequently: Keep an eye on the chicken and stir frequently to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
Use a Thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe temperature of 165°F without overcooking it.
Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to suit your taste. Lemon zest, fresh herbs, or a splash of soy sauce can add a unique twist to the dish.
Store Properly: Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain its tenderness and flavor.
Safety First: Always use a clean spatula when handling cooked chicken to avoid cross-contamination from raw meat.

Variations And Substitutions

Spicy Variation: For those who love a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. You can also marinate the chicken in a spicy sauce like sriracha or hot sauce before cooking.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to add a fragrant and savory touch. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can also brighten the flavors.
Asian-Inspired: Substitute the olive oil with sesame oil and add soy sauce, ginger, and a splash of rice vinegar to the seasoning mix. Top with sesame seeds and green onions for an authentic touch.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic powder or use freshly minced garlic for a stronger garlic flavor. You can also add roasted garlic cloves to the pan for an extra layer of taste.
Citrus Twist: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, lemon or lime juice, and zest for a fresh and zesty flavor. This works well in salads or light pasta dishes.
Mediterranean Style: Add Mediterranean spices such as cumin, coriander, and a touch of cinnamon to the seasoning. Pair with olives, feta cheese, and a Greek salad for a complete meal.
Low-Sodium Option: Use a salt substitute or reduce the amount of salt in the recipe. Enhance the flavor with herbs, spices, and a splash of vinegar or lemon juice.
Vegetarian Substitution: For a plant-based version, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh. Follow the same cooking instructions, ensuring the tofu or tempeh is well-seasoned and cooked until golden brown.
Keto-Friendly: Ensure the recipe remains low-carb by using keto-friendly oils like avocado or coconut oil. Serve with non-starchy vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Kid-Friendly: Reduce the amount of black pepper and paprika for a milder flavor that kids will enjoy. Serve with their favorite dipping sauces like ranch or ketchup.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover pan fried diced chicken breast in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, place the chicken in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating in Microwave: To reheat, place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Reheating on Stovetop: Alternatively, reheat the chicken in a frying pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it moist. Cook, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Reheating in Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Serving Cold: This chicken can also be enjoyed cold. Add it to salads or wraps straight from the fridge for a quick and convenient meal.
Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Heat just until warmed through for the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into a piece to ensure the juices run clear and there is no pink meat.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs. They are juicier and more flavorful but might take a little longer to cook. Make sure to dice them into similar-sized pieces and follow the same cooking instructions, checking for doneness as you would with chicken breast.

What can I do if my chicken is dry?

If your chicken turns out dry, it might be overcooked. Next time, try reducing the cooking time or use a thermometer to check for doneness. Adding a sauce or serving the chicken with moist sides like rice or pasta can also help.

Can I marinate the chicken before cooking?

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken can add extra flavor and tenderness. Use a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.

What sides go well with pan fried diced chicken breast?

This chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or your favorite pasta dish. It’s also great in wraps, sandwiches, or over a bed of rice.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. Cook a batch and store the chicken in individual containers with your favorite sides for quick and easy meals throughout the week. It reheats well and can be enjoyed in various dishes.

Can I use other seasonings?

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste. You can try adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano, or spices like cumin, chili powder, or turmeric. Adjust the seasoning quantities to your preference.

How can I make this recipe low-fat?

To make this recipe lower in fat, use a non-stick pan and reduce the amount of oil. You can also use a cooking spray instead of oil. Additionally, choose lean chicken breast and trim any visible fat before cooking.

Can I cook this chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the diced chicken in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C), spray the basket with cooking spray, and cook the chicken in a single layer for about 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that the seasonings you use do not contain any gluten. Always check the labels of packaged seasonings if you are following a strict gluten-free diet.

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