Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Paillard is wonderfully versatile and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual dinners. The thin chicken cooks fast and stays tender, while its mild flavor acts as a perfect canvas for a variety of dressings, herbs, or sides. It’s a light, satisfying dish that feels both fresh and refined.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Lemon juice

• Fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or basil)

• Garlic (optional)

• Mixed greens or arugula for serving

• Capers or shaved Parmesan (optional garnish)

Directions

1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it is about 1/4 inch thick.

2. Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt and pepper.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcooking to keep the chicken tender.

4. Remove chicken from the pan and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.

5. Serve immediately with a side of fresh greens tossed in olive oil and lemon, or your preferred light salad. Garnish with fresh herbs, capers, or Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves: 2-4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6-8 minutes
Total time: 18 minutes

Variations

• Marinate the chicken briefly in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before cooking for added flavor.

• Serve with a creamy mustard or garlic aioli sauce for extra richness.

• Pair with roasted vegetables or a grain salad for a heartier meal.

• Substitute chicken with veal or turkey cutlets for a different twist.

Storage/Reheating

Chicken Paillard is best enjoyed fresh for optimal tenderness. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or briefly in the microwave to avoid drying out.

FAQs

What is the best way to pound chicken for paillard?

Use a meat mallet or rolling pin and place the chicken between plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent tearing.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, but thighs are harder to pound thin evenly and have a different texture.

Is Chicken Paillard gluten-free?

Yes, as long as no breading or gluten-containing sauces are added.

Can I prepare Chicken Paillard ahead of time?

You can pound and season the chicken in advance, but cook it fresh for the best texture.

What sides go well with Chicken Paillard?

Light salads, roasted vegetables, or simple grains like quinoa or couscous are great choices.

How do I keep the chicken moist?

Do not overcook and consider marinating briefly in lemon juice and oil.

Can I freeze cooked Chicken Paillard?

Freezing is possible but not recommended as it may dry out on reheating.

What sauces complement Chicken Paillard?

Lemon butter sauce, mustard cream sauce, or fresh herb vinaigrettes work well.

How thin should the chicken be pounded?

About 1/4 inch thick is ideal for quick and even cooking.

Can I grill Chicken Paillard?

Yes, grilling is an excellent option and adds a nice smoky flavor.

Conclusion

Chicken Paillard is a timeless, simple dish that offers quick preparation with fresh, clean flavors. Its thin, tender chicken breast pairs beautifully with light salads and a squeeze of lemon, making it a perfect choice for a healthy yet elegant meal. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a small crowd, this recipe is easy to adapt and always delicious.

Chicken Paillard

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Chicken Paillard is a classic French dish featuring thinly pounded chicken breasts cooked quickly and served with fresh greens or light sauces, offering a simple, elegant, and healthy meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Yield: 2-4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Sautéing/Skillet
• Cuisine: French
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

1. 2-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
   
   2 tablespoons olive oil
   
   Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
   
   1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
   
   Fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, or basil), chopped
   
   2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
   
   Mixed greens or arugula for serving
   
   Optional garnish: capers or shaved Parmesan

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.

1. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound chicken until about 1/4 inch thick.
2. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add chicken and cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, avoiding overcooking.
5. Remove chicken from pan and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top.
6. Serve immediately with fresh greens tossed in olive oil and lemon or your preferred light salad.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, capers, or Parmesan if desired.

Notes

1. Marinate chicken briefly in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor.
2. Serve with creamy mustard or garlic aioli sauce for richness.
3. Pair with roasted vegetables or grain salads for a heartier meal.
4. Substitute chicken with veal or turkey cutlets for variety.
5. Best eaten fresh; leftovers can be refrigerated up to 2 days and reheated gently.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with greens
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg