12 Unique Cast Iron Skillet Grilled Chicken Recipes

Do you want to make juicy restaurant-quality chicken at home? Using a cast iron skillet might be your secret. It makes the meat juicy inside but crispy outside in just 15 minutes. These recipes are great for busy nights or planning ahead. Plus, they suit different diets like gluten-free and keto.

I’m thrilled to give you 12 different cast iron skillet grilled chicken ideas. You’ll find everything from classic herbs to spicy tastes. Ceramic electric skillets work well too. They bring the same great results as cast iron.

Using a skillet for these meals means even cooking in one pan. It’s straightforward for both experts and new cooks. And the food? It’s not only tasty but easy to make.

Key Takeaways

• Cast iron skillet grilled chicken is ready in about 15 minutes
• Recipes yield juicy and tender chicken with a crispy exterior
• Dishes are gluten-free, keto-friendly, and low carb
• Even heat distribution of cast iron enhances flavor
• Versatile recipes suit various dietary needs and preferences

Introduction to Cast Iron Skillet Cooking

For centuries, cast iron cooking has been a key part of traditional cuisine. Cooking with a cast iron skillet brings benefits that newer cookware can’t. These pans are perfect for making tasty dishes like grilled chicken all year.

A major plus of using a cast iron skillet is how it spreads heat. It helps your chicken get a perfect crunch outside yet stay moist inside. Plus, the pan’s seasoning adds a special touch to the taste.

These are some crucial techniques for cast iron cooking:

• Preheating: Always preheat your skillet before adding ingredients
• Temperature control: Adjust heat gradually for precise cooking
• Seasoning maintenance: Proper seasoning is crucial for optimal performance
• Cleaning: Use gentle methods to preserve the skillet’s seasoning

Now, let’s see how cast iron skillets stand up to other cookware choices:

Learn to cook well with a cast iron skillet, and your kitchen will bloom. You can do lots with it, from searing meat to baking bread.

Benefits of Using a Cast Iron Skillet for Grilled Chicken

I enjoy grilling chicken in my cast iron skillet because it has so many benefits. It’s a top choice for lots of cooks at home. This tool helps make tasty grilled chicken in many different ways.

Even Heat Distribution

Cast iron cookware is great at spreading heat well. This is perfect for grilling chicken. I get an even cook from the center to the edges of the chicken.

• Maintains steady temperature
• Eliminates hot spots
• Creates perfect sear on chicken

Versatility in Cooking Methods

Cast iron skillets can be used in lots of ways. I can cook chicken on the stovetop and then in the oven without changing pans. This method lets me try different ways of cooking, like searing or braising.

For instance, I make a Chicago-style deep dish pizza in my 10.5-inch skillet. It’s big enough for 4-6 people. This same size is perfect for grilling chicken for a family dinner.

Natural Non-Stick Surface

If you take care of it, cast iron becomes naturally non-stick. This is great for cooking without the chicken sticking. Now, I can use less oil and still get that lovely, crispy skin.

These benefits of using a cast iron skillet for chicken are unbeatable. Its even heating, ability to cook in different ways, and non-stick feature guarantee great meals. No matter if it’s a simple grilled chicken breast or a complex recipe, my cast iron skillet always shines.

Essential Tools and Ingredients for Cast Iron Chicken Recipes

To make delicious cast iron chicken, you’ll need some key items. Let’s go over the essential tools and ingredients. This will make your cooking easier and more fun.

The most important tool is the cast iron skillet. A 12-inch Lodge Cast Iron Skillet works well with most dishes. It’s tough, versatile, and spreads heat evenly. Another key item is a digital meat thermometer. It makes sure your chicken is just right.

Now, onto the chicken ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (7-8 ounces each)
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1/4 cup fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, or parsley)
• 2 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for compound butter)

For tasty food, don’t forget these seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

With these at hand, you’re set to make an amazing cast iron chicken meal. The salt makes the meat tender, the herbs give it a wonderful smell, the oil crisps it up, and butter adds a rich flavor.

Cooking with cast iron needs time and care. Using the right stuff can turn your meal into a feast. Grab your skillet, prepare your ingredients, and treat yourself to a flavorful dish!

Preparing Your Cast Iron Skillet for Grilling Chicken

Grilling chicken in a cast iron skillet is fantastic. It creates amazing flavors if done right. Today, we’ll cover how to prep your skillet for the best chicken every time.

Seasoning Your Skillet

Seasoning is key to a non-stick surface and no rust. Here’s an easy way to season your skillet:

1. Thoroughly clean the skillet
2. Apply a thin coat of oil
3. Bake it upside down at 450°F for an hour
4. Let it cool in the oven

Repeat this seasoning process a few times for perfect cooking. A well-seasoned skillet makes cooking tasty meals, like Chinese Chicken Cabbage Stir-Fry, easy.

Preheating Techniques

Getting your skillet hot before adding chicken is crucial. Here’s how I do it:

• Heat the skillet on medium-high
• Let it heat for 5-10 minutes
• To test, sprinkle water – if it dances and evaporates fast, it’s ready.

Oil Selection for Optimal Results

Choosing the right oil makes a difference when grilling in cast iron. I use oils with high smoke points. This stops the chicken from burning or tasting strange. My top options include:

Add a thin layer of your preferred oil to the hot skillet before you cook. This step aids in achieving a great sear and stops the chicken from sticking. With these simple prep steps, cooking delicious grilled chicken in your skillet is easy.

Classic Herb-Infused Cast Iron Grilled Chicken

This herb-infused chicken recipe, cooked in a cast iron skillet, is easy to make and full of amazing flavors.

Listed below are the ingredients and instructions for this tasty dish. It serves 4 people and only takes 30 minutes to get ready.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano), finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Mix salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs in a small bowl.
3. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
4. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes.
5. Add olive oil to the skillet and swirl to coat the bottom.
6. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. While the chicken cooks, mix the softened butter with minced garlic and remaining herbs.
8. Once the chicken is done, top each piece with a dollop of the herb butter mixture.

This recipe shows why cast iron grilling is great. The skillet’s heat makes perfectly cooked chicken. The herbs and garlic butter make it taste amazing.

If you make this dish, serve it with roasted veggies or a salad. Also, for more great recipes, try this shrimp and broccoli stir-fry that uses a cast iron skillet too.

This chicken recipe is not just delicious but also good for you. It’s rich in protein and low in carbs, a healthy option for dinner or prepping meals. The cast iron method keeps it moist and flavorful, making it a top recipe choice.

Smoky Paprika and Garlic Cast Iron Chicken

Creating tasty cast iron meals is one of my passions. Among them, this smoky paprika chicken stands out. By blending paprika’s richness with garlic’s tang, it becomes irresistible. This dish is a true gem in the world of cast iron skillet cooking.

Spice Blend Preparation

This dish’s magic starts with the right spices. Gather these key items:

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Combine them in a bowl. The paprika gives it depth, and garlic a robust flavor. Salt and pepper perfect this blend.

Cooking Instructions

Let’s start cooking:

1. Heat the skillet on medium-high.
2. Season 4 chicken breasts with the mix.
3. Put oil in the skillet.
4. Place chicken in.
5. Cook 7 minutes per side, until it’s 165°F inside.

Cast iron skillets spread heat evenly, cooking chicken perfectly. The seal from the high heat’s crust keeps the flavors in.

Serving Suggestions

This dish goes well with many sides, like:

• Roasted vegetables (try bell peppers and zucchini)
• Fresh garden salad
• Crispy roasted potatoes
• Fluffy white rice

For a full meal in less than 30 minutes, pair with a quick shrimp and dumpling stir-fry. Your taste buds will thank you!

This smoky paprika chicken is a great example of cast iron’s perks. Quick, healthy, and full of taste. You should definitely try it for your next family meal!

Lemon and Rosemary Cast Iron Skillet Chicken

Among my favorite recipes with herbs is this lemon rosemary chicken. The mix of citrus and herbs is ideal for cooking in a cast iron skillet.

For this recipe, gather these ingredients:

• 2-3 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (like breasts, thighs, or drumsticks)
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary
• 4 minced garlic cloves
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. First, combine rosemary, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Next, marinate the chicken pieces with this mix and chill for 1-12 hours.
3. Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high.
4. Put the marinated chicken in, skin-side down.
5. Cook it for 6-8 minutes to get a golden brown skin.
6. Turn the chicken and move the skillet to a 350°F oven.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken hits 165°F inside.

While the chicken is in the oven, make a sauce. Sauté shallot, thyme, and leftover garlic in a pan. Add chicken broth and simmer until it thickens. This tasty sauce goes well with the lemon rosemary chicken.

This meal is for 4 people and needs about 45 minutes to cook. The chicken turns out juicy and full of flavor, showing the beauty of using a cast iron skillet. Serve it with roasted potatoes and carrots for a great dinner.

Honey Mustard Glazed Cast Iron Chicken

This honey mustard glazed cast iron chicken is a favorite that can wake up your taste buds. The method of glazing in a cast iron always works wonders. It gives the chicken a tasty caramelized outside and a tender inside.

Glaze Ingredients

The honey mustard glaze steals the show here. You’ll need these items:

• 1/4 cup whole grain mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Just mix everything in a bowl. The sweet honey and sharp mustard balance each other. Lemon juice makes it zesty, while spices add a layer of flavor.

Grilling Technique

Here’s how you can make the perfect glaze on a cast iron:

1. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat
2. Season 4 chicken breasts with salt and pepper
3. Sear the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side
4. Brush the glaze on the chicken during the last 2 minutes of cooking
5. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F

Flavor Profile

This glaze gives the chicken a sweet, tangy, and spicy taste. The smoky flavor from the cast iron just adds to it. Serving it with roasted Brussels sprouts makes for a great meal.

This dish is not just tasty but healthy too. It’s rich in protein and has a balanced mix of important nutrients. You can keep leftovers in the fridge for a few days or freeze them for later. This makes it a perfect choice for meal planning.

Spicy Southwest Cast Iron Grilled Chicken

This Southwest chicken recipe is great for cookouts. It brings the taste of the Southwest to your table fast, serving 4.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 can (14 oz) black beans
• 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

First, heat up the olive oil in your skillet. Then, add the chicken and cook it for a bit.

1. Heat the olive oil in your cast iron skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken. Stir to coat evenly.
4. Add the black beans to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
5. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the mixture and stir to combine.

The mix of chili powder and cumin gives the dish its special Southwest taste. Plus, paprika adds a little smokiness. The lime juice makes everything pop and balances the flavors.

Top your spicy Southwest meal as you like:

• Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
• Salsa or chopped tomatoes
• Greek yogurt or sour cream
• Avocado slices or guacamole
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Sliced green onions
• Hot sauce or pickled jalapeños

Not just tasty, this dish is healthy too. It’s gluten-free and low in carbs. Each serving has 388 calories, 29g of protein, and 11g of fiber. So, it’s good for many diets.

Keep any extra in the fridge for 4-5 days in a sealed container. Warm them up in your skillet again. Have this meal with rice, in a wrap, or with chips for a cozy night in!

Mediterranean-Inspired Cast Iron Chicken with Olives and Feta

This dish brings the Mediterranean to your table. It’s cooked in a cast iron skillet, making it both simple and flavorful. With olives and feta on top, this recipe is a paradise for chicken lovers.

Ingredient List

For this recipe that serves 4, you’ll need:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup fresh cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup green olives, pitted and sliced
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 1/2 cup chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Here’s how to make this Mediterranean chicken:

1. Heat olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and oregano.
3. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
6. Add white wine and scrape up any browned bits.
7. Stir in chicken stock, tomatoes, and olives.
8. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 10-12 minutes until cooked through.
9. Top with crumbled feta and fresh parsley before serving.

Wine Pairing Recommendations

Pair the dish with a crisp white wine for the perfect match. Try these wines with it:

• Greek Assyrtiko: Its citrusy notes enhance the lemony flavors in the chicken.
• Spanish Albariño: The wine’s mineral qualities pair well with the feta and olives.
• Italian Vermentino: Its herbal undertones complement the oregano in the dish.

This recipe is not only tasty but also good for you. Each portion has 252 calories, 30g of protein, and just 9g of fat. It’s a speedy, nutritious meal that delivers the Mediterranean right to your dinner table in under 30 minutes!

Cast Iron Skillet Grilled Chicken Recipes: BBQ Bourbon Glazed Delight

This BBQ Bourbon Glazed Chicken is my favorite BBQ recipe. This recipe mixes bourbon with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. The mix creates a tasty glaze on the chicken that looks and tastes fantastic.

First, let’s go through what you’ll need for this great chicken recipe:

• 4 bone-in chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Next, here’s how to make this delicious dish:

1. Combine bourbon, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan. Simmer until slightly thick.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Heat your skillet over medium-high.
4. Cook the chicken skin-side down for 6-7 minutes.
5. Flip and cook the other side for 6-7 minutes.
6. Brush with glaze in the last few minutes of cooking.
7. Cook until it reaches 165°F for breasts or 175°F for thighs.

This method gives you the perfect grilled chicken – sweet and smoky. The bourbon makes the glaze rich. Brown sugar makes the outside of the chicken caramelized.

This chicken recipe is great for summer parties or quick meals. The skillet makes sure the chicken is juicy inside. It also gives a nice crisp outside. Try this tasty version of grilled chicken!

Asian-Fusion Ginger and Soy Cast Iron Chicken

The ginger soy mix in this Asian-Fusion Ginger and Soy Cast Iron Chicken recipe gives the chicken a tasty kick. It’s a flavorful recipe that Chinese food lovers will enjoy.

Marinade Creation

The heart of this dish is the ginger soy sauce. Here’s what you’ll use:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional for heat)

Mix these in a bowl. The marinade has a mix of sweet, savory, and tangy. For the best taste, let your chicken soak in it for 2 to 10 hours.

Grilling Tips

Ready to grill? Here’s what you do with your chicken:

1. Warm up your skillet on medium-high.
2. Take the chicken out of the marinade and pat it dry.
3. Put some oil in the skillet.
4. Grill the chicken, 6-7 minutes each side for thighs, 5-6 minutes for breasts.
5. Use a thermometer to check if it’s 165°F inside.

Garnish Ideas

Make your dish fancy with these toppings:

• Sliced green onions
• Toasted sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• A squeeze of lime juice

Pair the chicken with rice and veggies. It makes a healthy meal with 268 calories, 27g protein, and 9g fat per serving. A great, tasty, and healthful use of your cast iron skillet.

Creamy Tuscan Cast Iron Skillet Chicken

This Tuscan chicken recipe is creamy, full of flavor, and easy to make in a skillet.

• 3 chicken breasts (1.5-2 lbs total)
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup chicken stock
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh garlic
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups spinach
• 1 cup (3 oz) sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

This is how you make this Tuscan chicken dish:

1. Season the chicken breasts with Italian seasoning and salt.
2. Heat the avocado oil in a cast iron skillet on medium-high.
3. Cook the chicken about 6-7 minutes per side until it’s golden.
4. Take the chicken out and set it aside.
5. In the same skillet, cook the garlic until it smells great.
6. Then, add in the cream, stock, and Parmesan. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
7. Put in the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes and cook until the spinach is wilted.
8. Add the chicken back to the skillet, simmer 5-7 minutes until it’s done.

This Tuscan chicken dish is full of protein, at 30g per serving. It’s a rich, satisfying meal for anyone who loves Italian food. With its creamy sauce made of Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a dream come true for chicken lovers.

Eat it with pasta or bread to enjoy every bit of the sauce. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, which is perfect for planning meals. This Tuscan chicken takes just 20 minutes to cook, great for busy evenings when you want something special.

Cajun-Spiced Cast Iron Grilled Chicken Thighs

Get ready to spice up your dinner with Cajun chicken thighs prepared in your trusty cast iron skillet. It makes the chicken crispy on the outside and juicy inside. With this dish, you’ll bring the taste of Louisiana to your table.

Spice Mix Components

Making your own Cajun spice mix is a cinch. It lets you pick how spicy you want things. Here’s my recipe for a zesty homemade Cajun seasoning:

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Just mix these up and keep in an airtight jar. If you’re in a rush, Tony Chachere’s is a fine option from the store.

Cooking Time and Temperature

To get your Cajun chicken thighs just right, do the following:

1. Start by heating your oven to 450°F with the skillet inside, for 30 minutes.
2. Massage 6 chicken thighs with the Cajun mix.
3. Take the skillet out and place the chicken, skin-side down.
4. Bake for 30-40 minutes, turning over once in between.
5. Check with a meat thermometer – it’s done at 165°F.
6. Let the chicken sit for 4-5 minutes before digging in.

Serving with Traditional Sides

Finish off your Cajun meal with these classic sides:

• Dirty Rice: A tasty dish made with rice, chicken liver, and spices.
• Collard Greens: Greens cooked slow with bacon for authentic Southern flavor.
• Creole Green Beans: Green beans with a spicy Creole kick.

This recipe for Cajun chicken thighs feeds 4 and cooks up in around 25 minutes. Each serving has 344 calories, 24g protein, and 27g fat. Don’t forget, you can adjust the salt to your liking. Enjoy your Cajun dinner!

Greek-Style Lemon and Oregano Cast Iron Chicken

This Greek-Style Lemon and Oregano recipe captures the Mediterranean’s essence. We will look at this dish, perfect for a summer night feast!

• 8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3.5 to 4 pounds)
• 1/3 cup fresh oregano leaves, packed
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt

To kick things off, let’s make the marinade. Combine lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This mix is the heart of our Greek dish.

Next, add the chicken thighs to a large zip-top bag and pour the marinade in. Seal it up and gently massage the chicken to spread the flavors. Chill for at least 30 minutes, or go for 4 hours to intensify the taste.

For cooking, first, warm up your oven to 425°F. Then, get your skillet hot over the stove. Take the chicken out of the marinade and dry them off.

Now, lay the chicken skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for roughly 7 minutes until the skin crisps up. Flip them over and move the skillet to the oven.

Roast the chicken for 20-25 minutes until it’s cooked through. The quick, hot oven and cast iron combo make the chicken juicy and flavorful.

After cooking, let the chicken sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This quick rest time enhances the taste and texture.

I zest up this Greek chicken with Greek salad and tzatziki sauce on the side. The mix of lemon, oregano, and chicken is a taste of the Med.

Each portion of this dish offers around 440 calories, with 27g fat and 34g protein. It’s a great, yummy, and healthy meal for any dinner table!

Tips for Achieving Perfectly Grilled Chicken in a Cast Iron Skillet

First, dry off your chicken well with paper towels before seasoning it. This quick move is key for a crunchy, golden exterior when grilling. I also recommend pounding chicken breasts until they’re 1-inch thick for an even cook.

Warming up your cast iron skillet right is a must. I bring mine to a heat of 375°F to 450°F for the best sear. Then, I use around 1 tablespoon of oil for every pound of chicken. Pick sunflower or vegetable oil as they smoke less than olive oil. To cook 200g chicken pieces, it takes 15-18 minutes with a turn at the halfway point.

Checking the inside temperature with a meat thermometer is critical for safety. Make sure it hits 165°F for safe eating. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it moist and flavorsome. I sometimes brush the chicken with its own juices while it cooks, adding extra juiciness. And don’t forget to wash and oil your skillet after using it. This care keeps it cooking well for a long time.