Ohhh yes 😌 chicken breast—lean, versatile, and a total kitchen MVP. The key is keeping it juicy because it can dry out easily. Here’s a reliable method plus some flavor-packed ideas.
🍗 Juicy Pan-Seared Chicken Breast
Ingredients (serves 2–4)
- 2–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Optional: dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep Chicken
- Pat chicken dry.
- Pound thick parts to even thickness (~¾ inch) or slice horizontally.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and herbs.
2️⃣ Sear
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown.
3️⃣ Check & Rest
- Internal temperature: 165°F (74°C).
- Rest 5 minutes before slicing to lock in juices.
🔥 Oven-Baked Version
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place seasoned chicken in greased dish.
- Bake 18–22 minutes depending on thickness.
- Rest before slicing.
💡 Pro Tips
- Thermometer is your friend: Ensures juiciness.
- Resting matters: Keeps meat tender.
- Optional brine: 15-min saltwater soak = extra moist.
- High heat, short cook: Beats low and slow for dryness prevention.
🍽️ Flavor Variations
- Garlic butter: Finish with melted butter, garlic, and parsley.
- Lemon herb: Lemon juice + zest + thyme.
- Honey mustard glaze: Brush before baking.
- Cajun or blackened: Paprika, cayenne, garlic, and onion powder.
I can also give you a slow cooker chicken breast recipe that turns out perfectly tender every time, or a creamy one-pan chicken dinner that’s melt-in-your-mouth juicy 😏
Do you want me to do that?
