Did you forget to thaw your chicken breasts for dinner? No worries! You can cook them straight from frozen and still create a quick, easy, and delicious meal. Here’s how you can prepare a tasty dinner without the need for thawing.

Ingredients

  • 2 frozen chicken breasts

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 lemon, sliced

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Prepare the Chicken Breasts

  • Place the frozen chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle olive oil over both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated.

3. Season the Chicken

  • In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.

4. Add Lemon Slices

  • Place lemon slices on top of and around the chicken breasts. The lemon will add a bright, fresh flavor to the chicken as it cooks.

5. Bake the Chicken

  • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through.

6. Let it Rest and Serve

  • Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken tender and juicy. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Benefits of This Method

  • Convenient: Cooking chicken straight from frozen saves time and hassle. There’s no need to plan ahead or worry about thawing.

  • Healthy: This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients and avoids unhealthy oils and sugar.

  • Flavorful: The combination of spices and lemon enhances the natural flavor of the chicken, making it delicious and satisfying.

Tips for Best Results

  • Check the Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

  • Even Cooking: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, consider pounding them to an even thickness before cooking for more uniform results.

  • Serve with Sides: Pair the chicken with your favorite healthy sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or quinoa, for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken breasts from frozen is not only possible but also convenient and delicious. With this quick and easy recipe, you can have a flavorful and healthy dinner on the table in no time. Next time you forget to thaw your chicken, don’t worry—just follow these simple steps and enjoy a tasty meal.

Happy cooking!