Looking for a fast, healthy, and flavorful chicken dish you can make any night of the week? This easy chicken paillard recipe is your new go-to. With just a few fresh ingredients and about 20 minutes of your time, you’ll have a perfectly pan-seared chicken breast that’s juicy, golden, and paired beautifully with a light arugula salad or your favorite side.
Whether you’re craving a French-inspired dinner or simply need a healthy protein option that doesn’t take forever to cook, this recipe checks all the boxes. In fact, it’s quick, flavorful, and versatile—making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or elegant dinners alike.
🌿 What Is Chicken Paillard?
Chicken paillard (pronounced pie-yard) is a French term that refers to a boneless chicken breast that’s been pounded thin and cooked quickly at high heat. The result? A tender, evenly cooked cutlet with a crispy golden exterior and moist, flavorful interior.
The thinner cut means it cooks fast—making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need to make classic chicken paillard:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for color and light flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter (for cooking)
- Juice of half a lemon (for finishing)
Optional for Serving:
- Arugula or mixed greens
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Shaved parmesan
- Extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar
🔪 How to Make Chicken Paillard (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Pound the Chicken
Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to about ¼ inch thickness.
🔥 Why this matters: Thinner chicken cooks more evenly and quickly, preventing dry or rubbery texture.
Step 2: Season Generously
Next, sprinkle both sides of each piece with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Although the ingredients are simple, this dish truly shines because of its clean, balanced flavors.
Step 3: Sear in a Hot Pan
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet (preferably cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Avoid crowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary.
✅ Tip: If your chicken releases too much moisture, the pan might cool down. Wipe it between batches and reheat if needed.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon Juice
Remove the chicken from the pan and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. This adds brightness and enhances the flavor beautifully.
🥗 Suggested Pairings
Chicken paillard is wonderfully versatile. You can serve it in several ways:
1. With Arugula Salad
- Toss fresh arugula, cherry tomatoes, and shaved parmesan with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Place the salad over or next to the chicken for a refreshing contrast.
2. With Roasted Veggies
- Think asparagus, zucchini, or carrots for a nutrient-dense, low-carb dinner.
3. Over Pasta or Rice
- A light lemon butter pasta makes a fantastic, filling base.
4. As a Sandwich or Wrap
- Fold the chicken into a pita or wrap with greens and dressing for a portable lunch option.
🕒 Why This Recipe Works for Busy People
- Fast: Done in 20 minutes from start to finish
- Healthy: High in protein, low in carbs, and no heavy sauces
- Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or toppings to fit your taste
- Elegant yet Simple: Feels gourmet but is easy enough for beginners
🧂 Flavor Variations to Try
Want to switch it up? Try these tasty twists:
- Herb-Crusted: Add chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley before searing.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne to the seasoning.
- Garlic-Lemon Butter Sauce: After cooking, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine, garlic, and lemon juice, then swirl in butter for a quick pan sauce.
❄️ Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.
- Meal Prep: Cook multiple cutlets and store them plain to add to salads, grain bowls, or wraps throughout the week.
📝 Recipe Card
Here’s a quick printable recipe card you can include in your post:
Easy Chicken Paillard Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Serves: 2
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions:
- Pound chicken breasts to ¼ inch thickness.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken.
- Serve immediately with your choice of sides.
📌 Final Thoughts
This easy chicken paillard recipe proves that elegant cooking doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few pantry staples and a hot pan, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in 20 minutes or less.
Whether you serve it with a crisp arugula salad or roasted vegetables, this dish is a perfect addition to your regular rotation—and it’s sure to impress.
💬 Have You Tried This Recipe?
Let me know in the comments how your chicken paillard turned out! Did you serve it with salad, pasta, or something else? Share your tips, twists, or favorite pairings below.