Description
A simple and flavorful pan-seared chicken breast recipe that delivers juicy, tender chicken with a crispy golden crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish uses basic seasonings and olive oil, showcasing the versatility and ease of stovetop cooking.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Cooking Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme to enhance flavor.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking, ensuring a nice sear.
- Sear Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side for another 4-5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for 3-5 minutes. This helps retain the juices, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
- Serve: Slice the chicken breasts if desired and serve them with your favorite sides such as steamed vegetables, rice, or salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- For best results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
- If chicken breasts are very thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute olive oil with avocado oil or vegetable oil if preferred.
- Adjust seasoning quantities according to taste preferences.
- Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the pan during cooking for extra aroma.
