Easy

Chicken Paillard

Name: Chicken Paillard
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 4 whole boneless skinless chicken breasts; 60 ml extra virgin olive oil; 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp sea salt; 0.5 tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 4 cups arugula; 100 g shaved Parmesan cheese; 1 whole lemon, cut into wedges

40 min4483 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|January 15, 2024

This Chicken Paillard recipe is a Canadian favourite that brings incredible flavour to your dinner table with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend cooking, this dish features tender, juicy chicken paired with carefully balanced seasonings that the whole family will love. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or cooking for guests, this recipe delivers consistent, restaurant-quality results every time. Every step has been tested in Canadian kitchens using ingredients available at your local grocery store. With a prep time of just 15 minutes, you can have this delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of simple techniques and bold flavours makes this one of the most requested chicken recipes on our site. Bookmark this page and add it to your regular rotation — you will not be disappointed.

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Ingredients

Servings:

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

Flour‑Dusted Sear

“After pounding the chicken breast to an even ½‑inch, dust it lightly with all‑purpose flour seasoned with a pinch of salt; the flour forms a delicate crust that locks in the lemon‑garlic‑oregano aromatics when you sear each side 2 minutes over high heat, then finish with a quick arugula toss.”

About This Recipe

Chicken Paillard is a quintessential dish that resonates deeply with Canadian home cooks, offering a delightful balance of convenience and flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; just a few quality ingredients transform chicken breasts into tender, juicy cutlets that are bursting with flavor. The use of smoked paprika and fresh garlic elevates the dish, making it perfect for any occasion—be it a busy weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend meal with friends and family.

What makes Chicken Paillard especially beloved is its versatility. It's light yet satisfying, with a crisp exterior and a succulent interior that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. The quick cooking method ensures that the chicken remains moist while infusing it with the fragrant herbs and spices. With such ease and delicious results, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in many Canadian kitchens, inviting everyone to gather around the table and enjoy good food together.

Tips for the Best Chicken Paillard

To achieve perfectly cooked Chicken Paillard, aim for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for doneness. Be sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch; this ensures they cook quickly and evenly, minimizing the risk of dryness. Marinating the chicken briefly in the olive oil, lemon juice, and spices not only infuses flavor but also helps in tenderizing the meat, making it even more enjoyable.

What to Serve With It

This Chicken Paillard is delightful served alongside a fresh arugula salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a zesty vinaigrette. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with roasted sweet potatoes or quinoa seasoned with herbs. A glass of chilled Canadian white wine or a crisp lager complements the flavors beautifully, making it a perfect dish for a casual dinner or an elegant gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Chicken Paillard can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil to prevent drying out. If you wish to freeze leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container; they will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

Nutrition Per Serving

483

Calories

36g

Protein

19g

Fat

42g

Carbs

Fiber6g

Sugar11g

Sodium461mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?+

While this recipe is designed for boneless chicken breasts, you can use bone-in pieces; however, cooking times will vary significantly. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) for safety.

What can I substitute for smoked paprika?+

If you don't have smoked paprika on hand, regular paprika can be used, though it won't have the same depth of flavor. A pinch of cayenne can add some heat if desired.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?+

This Chicken Paillard recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any accompaniments or sauces you serve alongside it are also gluten-free, and you're good to go!

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?+

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight in the olive oil, lemon juice, and spices will enhance the flavor and tenderness, making for an even more delectable paillard.

What sides go well with Chicken Paillard?+

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even creamy mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:

15 min

Cook:

25 min

Total:

40 min

Servings:

Difficulty:

Easy

Pro Tips

1Pounding to an even thickness is critical—uneven cutlets will have dry edges and undercooked centers.
2Room temperature chicken cooks more evenly than cold chicken straight from the fridge.
3Don't flip the chicken more than once. Let the grill sear undisturbed for clean grill marks.
4Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking these thin cutlets. They go from perfect to dry in under a minute.

Variations

Swap arugula for baby spinach or mixed greens tossed with balsamic vinaigrette.
Add sliced cherry tomatoes and red onion to the salad topping for extra colour and crunch.
Use lime juice and cilantro in the marinade for a Latin twist.

Grilled & Broiled Chicken