Quick Chicken Dinner for One: Juicy, Fast & Fuss-Free

After a long day juggling work, kids, and errands, the last thing you want is a pile of pots and pans—or leftovers that sit untouched. That’s why I lean on this quick chicken dinner for one when I need something simple, satisfying, and done in under 20 minutes. It’s lean, flavorful, and fits perfectly into a solo evening in. No waste, no stress—just you, your air fryer or skillet, and one delicious plate.

💡 Morgan Tip: This dish became my go-to when I started meal prepping just for myself during nap time. It’s the perfect portion for a busy mom’s break.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This quick chicken dinner for one is the answer to “what’s for dinner?” when you’re solo and short on time.

✅ Perfect single portion – No measuring, no excess

✅ Fast prep & cook – Ready in 20 minutes or less

✅ Minimal cleanup – One pan or air fryer basket

✅ Full of flavor – Juicy chicken with a zesty seasoning blend

✅ Adaptable sides – Works with veggies, salad, or rice

💡 Morgan Tip: Make it in your air fryer or a cast-iron skillet—either way, the flavor is fantastic, and the cleanup is quick.

Quick Chicken Dinner for One : Ingredients

You don’t need much for this quick chicken dinner for one —just a few basics you probably already have:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (5–6 oz)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning or dried thyme
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
• Optional: 1 cup broccoli or green beans (for a built-in side)

💡 Morgan Tip: Pound the chicken breast to even thickness—this makes it cook faster and more evenly, especially in the air fryer.

Step-by-Step Instruction

Step 1 – Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.

Step 2 – Cook (Skillet Method)
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F).

Step 3 – Or Use the Air Fryer
Preheat air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 4 – Add Optional Veggies
In the last 3 minutes of cooking, toss in your broccoli or beans (lightly oiled and seasoned) for a one-pan finish.

Step 5 – Rest & Serve
Let the chicken rest 3 minutes before slicing. Squeeze with lemon juice if using.

Morgan Tip: If you’re using the air fryer, spray the basket with a little oil before placing the chicken to avoid sticking and crisp the edges.

My Quick Chicken Dinner for One Tips

✅ Use thin-cut chicken breasts to cut down cook time

✅ Add a pat of butter and herbs after cooking for a bistro-style finish

✅ Pair with microwaveable rice or leftover roasted veggies for minimal effort

✅ Try different spice blends like Cajun or lemon pepper for variety

💡 Morgan Tip: Make a spice blend ahead of time and keep it in a jar—saves time and lets you skip measuring every night.

Serving Ideas

This quick chicken dinner for one is so flexible it fits just about any craving. Try these ideas:

• Slice over a Caesar or spinach salad with croutons
• Serve with roasted potatoes and steamed veggies
• Add to a warm grain bowl with quinoa, avocado, and roasted carrots
• Pair with couscous and a dollop of Greek yogurt for a Mediterranean twist
• Layer into a wrap with greens and your favorite dressing

💡 Morgan Tip: Drizzle with balsamic glaze or honey mustard if you’re bored of plain chicken—it instantly changes the vibe.

Recipe Help & FAQs

💡 Morgan Tip: Always use a digital meat thermometer—no guessing, just perfect results every time.

Quick Chicken Dinner for One

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Description:

This quick chicken dinner for one is juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for solo meals without any waste.

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients:

1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (5–6 oz)

1 tbsp olive oil

½ tsp garlic powder

½ tsp paprika

¼ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

½ tsp Italian seasoning

1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

1 cup broccoli or green beans (optional)

Instructions

Instructions:

Step 1 – Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season with oil and spices.

Step 2 – Cook (Skillet Method): Heat skillet and cook chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden.

Step 3 – Or Use the Air Fryer: Or air fry at 380°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 4 – Add Optional Veggies: Add seasoned veggies to the pan or air fryer in the last 3 minutes.

Step 5 – Rest & Serve: Let rest 3 minutes, slice, and drizzle with lemon if using.

Notes

Notes:

Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking—165°F is perfect.

Try different spice blends to keep it interesting.

Meal prep by seasoning chicken earlier in the day.

• Author: Riley Morgan
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Main
• Method: Air Fryer, Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: quick chicken dinner for one, solo meal, chicken recipe air fryer

This recipe is part of our full air fryer recipes for one person collection