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chicken breast recipe

chicken breast recipe

This ultimate chicken breast recipe will teach you how to cook juicy, flavorful, and tender chicken breasts that are perfect for any meal. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in no time. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe is sure to impress with its mouthwatering taste and versatility.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course, Healthy Recipes, Quick and Easy
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 745 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients for the Ultimate Chicken Breast Recipe:
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for a richer flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • 1 lemon juiced, zest optional
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth optional for added moisture

Notes

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  • Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts. If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them between two pieces of parchment paper or plastic wrap to about 1 inch thickness. This ensures they cook evenly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

  • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help create a nice sear.
  • Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, rosemary, and minced garlic (or garlic powder). Massage the seasonings into the meat to ensure even coating.
  • Optional: Add a little zest of lemon for a burst of citrus flavor.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

  • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter.
  • Once the oil is hot (but not smoking), add the chicken breasts to the skillet. You should hear a sizzle when the chicken hits the pan.
  • Sear the chicken on one side for about 4-5 minutes until it forms a golden-brown crust.
  • Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Flavor and Moisture

  • After both sides are seared, lower the heat to medium-low.
  • Add 1/4 cup of chicken broth (or water if you prefer) to the pan to help keep the chicken moist. You can also squeeze in fresh lemon juice for extra brightness.
  • Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Let the Chicken Rest

  • Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it on a plate.
  • Let it rest for 5 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.

Step 6: Serve

  • Slice the chicken against the grain to ensure tenderness.
  • Optional: Drizzle any remaining pan sauce over the chicken for extra flavor.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary if desired. Serve with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.