Juicy & Flavorful Chicken Medallions Recipe

Chicken Medallions are juicy, tender slices of chicken breast cooked quickly and evenly to deliver maximum flavor in every bite — an easy and versatile recipe perfect for quick dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests. With just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, this mouthwatering dish offers a foolproof way to enjoy flavorful chicken without dryness, at around 280 calories per serving. Thanks to simple techniques and smart seasoning, chicken medallions can easily become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.

What Are Chicken Medallions?

Usually cut to roughly ½ to ¾ inch thickness, chicken medallions are thin, spherical cuts of chicken breast. Being smaller and more consistent than whole chicken breasts, they:

• Cook ahead of whole chicken breast.
• Absorb marinades more suited for additional juiciness.
• When cooked correctly, remain delicate.
• ideal for grilling, baking, or pan-searing

From traditional pan-seared variants to creamy, saucy dishes, they are perfect for a range of meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in less than thirty minutes, quick and easy.
• Sloshy and flavorful – There is no dried chicken anymore.
• Adaptable – experiments with several sauces and spices.
• Fit and Lean – An excellent choice rich in proteins.

Ingredients for Chicken Medallions

Essential Ingredients:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into medallions)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for extra flavor)

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor:

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (for a herby touch)
• ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (for some heat)
• Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme (for garnish)

How to Make Chicken Medallions – Step-by-Step

Making Chicken Medallions: Methodically Step-by-Step

First step: get ready the chicken.

• Cut the chicken breasts into even medallions—about ½-inch thick.
• To aid in good sear, dry them with a paper towel.
• Season both sides with paprika, salt, pepper, garlicky powder.

Second: Get the pan hot.

• In a big skillet set on medium-high, heat olive oil.
• For added richness and taste, add butter.

Third step: Sear the chicken.

• Arange the medallions in the pan without crowding them.
• Cook till golden brown, three to four minutes on each side.
• flip once to prevent overcooking.

Fourth step: Rest and serve.

• Take off from heat and give the medallions five minutes to rest.
• Present right away and sprinkle fresh herbs on top.

Best Cooking Methods for Chicken Medallions

• Pan-Seared – Quick and develops a golden crust.
• Oven-Baked – Even cooking, perfect for meal prep.
• Air-Fried – Healthier option with crispy edges.
• Grilled – Adds a smoky flavor.

Serving Ideas: What Goes Well with Chicken Medallions?

• Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables
• Steamed rice or quinoa
• A fresh green salad
• Garlic butter pasta
• Creamy mushroom sauce

Storage, Reheating, and Meal Prep Tips

Properly storing and reheating chicken medallions ensures they stay juicy, tender, and full of flavor, even days after cooking. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or saving leftovers, here’s how to keep your chicken medallions tasting fresh.

How to Store Leftovers

• Let the chicken cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Place in an airtight container or wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap to lock in freshness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If storing with sauce, keep the chicken and sauce separate to prevent sogginess.

For the best results, label the container with the date so you know when to use them.

How to Reheat Without Drying Out

Reheating chicken medallions the right way is key to maintaining their juiciness. Avoid using high heat for too long, as this can make the chicken tough.

Oven (Best for Even Heating & Crispiness)

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Cover loosely with foil to retain moisture.
• Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Air Fryer (Quick & Crispy)

• Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Place chicken medallions in the basket in a single layer.
• Air fry for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Stovetop (Best for Keeping Moisture in the Chicken)

• Heat 1 teaspoon butter or olive oil in a pan over medium-low heat.
• Add chicken medallions and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping occasionally.
• If needed, add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them moist.

Microwave (Not Recommended, but Possible)

• Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
• Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
• Heat in 15-20 second intervals, flipping between each round.

Can You Freeze Chicken Medallions?

Absolutely! Freezing chicken medallions is a great way to extend their shelf life while keeping them fresh and flavorful.

Freezing Cooked Chicken Medallions

• Let the chicken cool completely.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat from Frozen

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat using oven, air fryer, or stovetop methods for best results.
• If in a rush, reheat straight from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes.

Meal Prep Tips for Busy Weeks

Here’s a quick guide on effectively meal prep chicken medallions:

✔ Cook in large quantities and save portions in containers meant for meal prep.
✔ To retain texture, keep sides separate—like rice, vegetables, or sauces.
✔ Use freshness and quick reheating from airtight glass containers.
✔ Reheat just what you need to prevent repeatedly reheating the same portion.

These storage, reheating, and meal prep ideas can let you enjoy chicken medallions fresh, tasty, and wonderfully juicy even days after cooking!

Flavor Variations & Creative Twists

One of the best things about chicken medallions is how versatile they are. With a few simple ingredient swaps, you can create completely different flavors to suit your taste preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Medallions – Light & Zesty

For a bright and refreshing twist, add fresh lemon juice and garlic to your chicken medallions.

• How to Make It:
  • After cooking the chicken, melt 1 tablespoon butter in the pan.
  • Add 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
  • Squeeze in ½ lemon’s juice and stir well.
  • Pour over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley.

This variation pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Medallions – Crispy & Savory

If you love crispy, cheesy chicken, this is the variation for you.

• How to Make It:
  • In a bowl, mix ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup breadcrumbs, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
  • Dip each chicken medallion in beaten egg, then coat with the Parmesan mixture.
  • Pan-fry in olive oil over medium heat until golden and crispy.

This version is crunchy on the outside and juicy inside, making it perfect with pasta, marinara sauce, or roasted veggies.

Spicy Cajun Chicken Medallions – Smoky & Bold

For those who enjoy a little heat, Cajun seasoning adds a spicy, smoky flavor that makes chicken medallions incredibly delicious.

• How to Make It:
  • Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Cook as usual, ensuring a nice charred crust on the outside.
  • Drizzle with a touch of honey for a sweet-spicy balance.

This variation is excellent with corn on the cob, mashed potatoes, or a side of coleslaw.

Creamy Mushroom Chicken Medallions – Rich & Comforting

If you want a restaurant-quality dish, adding a creamy mushroom sauce makes these chicken medallions extra indulgent.

• How to Make It:
  • After cooking the chicken, remove it from the pan and set aside.
  • In the same pan, sauté 1 cup sliced mushrooms in 1 tablespoon butter.
  • Add ½ cup heavy cream and ¼ cup chicken broth, stirring until thickened.
  • Return the chicken to the pan and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Serve with buttered pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed green beans for a rich and comforting meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How best to keep chicken medallions juicy?

Steer clear of overdooking; cook to 165°F and let them rest before serving.

Could I prepare this with an air fryer?

True! Cook, flipping halfway, at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes.

How should I cut medallion-style chicken breasts?

For consistent cooking, slice horizontally in ½-inch thickness rounds.

For chicken medallions, which season is best?

Though you can vary it, a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika tastes wonderful!

Can I cook chicken medallions ahead of time?

Exactly! Cook them ahead; store in portions; reheat as needed.

Final Thoughts

When you want something quick, tasty, and healthful, chicken medallions are the ideal dinner. You may create as simple or fancy as you wish with the different seasoning and presenting choices. Try this dish right now and savor mouthwatering, delicate chicken medallions!