There’s something magical about the way cinnamon wraps itself around savory dishes—it adds warmth, depth, and just enough intrigue to turn an everyday chicken breast into something memorable.
This Cinnamon Chicken Recipe might surprise you at first glance, but once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s quietly climbing the charts in home kitchens.
With just a handful of pantry staples and a bold blend of Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and ground cinnamon, this dish brings together sweet and savory in the most satisfying way.
This isn’t your average weeknight chicken dinner. The secret lies in how cinnamon balances with herbs and salt, creating a subtle spice that lingers with every bite.
And the best part? It’s naturally low in carbs and high in lean protein—making it a great recipe for anyone looking to eat lighter without sacrificing flavor.
In fact, cinnamon has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a smart choice for balanced eating.
I first stumbled across this combo while cleaning out my spice cabinet mid-autumn. One sprinkle led to another, and now it’s a weekly go-to.
It pairs beautifully with a crisp Broccoli Cauliflower Salad or for something hearty, a warm slice of Breakfast Naan. Simple to prep. Big on flavor. Comforting in all the right ways. Try it once, and it might just end up in your regular dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Want to Make This Again and Again!
- A flavor combo I didn’t expect—but now can’t live without: Cinnamon with Italian herbs? I was skeptical too. But together, they create this warm, herby, slightly sweet depth that makes the chicken feel special, not basic.
- It fits my busy weeknights like a glove: This recipe is so easy to prep and cooks fast—perfect for evenings when I don’t have time to hover over the stove. Plus, the leftovers reheat like a dream.
- It’s super flexible: I’ve used chicken thighs, tenders, and even diced pieces for wraps—it always works. That kind of versatility is gold in my kitchen.
- Comfort food without the guilt: This dish gives me all the cozy dinner vibes I crave, especially in cooler months, but without the heaviness. It’s a great fit for anyone trying to eat lighter but still enjoy their food.
- The smell is everything: No joke, the first time I made this, my neighbor knocked just to ask what I was cooking. It smells like something out of a rustic bistro—rich, herby, and warmly spiced.
Cinnamon Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Skillet or frying pan
- Tongs or spatula
- Plate for serving
Ingredients
- 4 skinless boneless chicken breast halves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons Italian-style seasoning
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel.
- In a bowl, mix cinnamon, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the spice blend evenly over both sides of each chicken piece.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil.
- Place chicken in the skillet and cook for 6–7 minutes per side.
- Flip only once to ensure a good sear.
- Check for doneness—chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
- Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 143kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Sugar | 0g |
| Sodium | 1822mg |
Helpful Tips from My Kitchen to Yours!
- Toast the spices before rubbing:
If you’ve got an extra minute, lightly toast the cinnamon and Italian seasoning in a dry pan—just until fragrant. It wakes up the flavors and gives the chicken even more depth. - Let the chicken rest with the spice rub:
Give it at least 10–15 minutes to sit after seasoning (longer if possible). The spices absorb better and you’ll get that even, seasoned-all-the-way-through flavor. - Go easy on the oil—but choose the right one:
You don’t need much, but using olive oil or avocado oil brings out the earthiness of the cinnamon and keeps things heart-healthy. - Cook over medium—not high—heat:
It’s tempting to crank the heat, but medium heat gives you a gorgeous golden sear without burning the spices. Cinnamon can char fast if you’re not careful. - Slice against the grain for the juiciest bite:
Once rested, cut the chicken across the grain. It makes a big difference in tenderness and gives a clean, juicy bite every time.
