Pan-Seared Chicken Breast
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
sliced in half lengthways; or use 4 small breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
divided
- 3/4 tsp garlic powder
- 3/4 tsp smoked paprika
- 3/4 tsp onion powder
- 3/4 tsp oregano
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne
- 2 tbsp butter
Directions
- 1
If your chicken breasts are larger, slice them in half to create 4 thinner chicken breasts, then pat them dry with a paper towel. Brush 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken.
- 2
In a small bowl, stir all of the seasonings together. Use your hands to sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken, coating all sides.
- 3
Pour the remaining olive oil in a large, deep skillet or a cast iron skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken smooth side down and cook the chicken for 5 minutes. Use tongs to flip the chicken over, then reduce the heat to medium and cook the chicken for 2-5 minutes. NOTE: cook times vary depending on thickness of the chicken; always use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature.
- 4
Add the butter to the skillet, then remove the skillet from the heat.
- 5
Let the chicken rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy!
Pan-Seared Chicken Breast
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Based on 43 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Tired of dry, uninspiring chicken for dinner? This Pan-Seared Chicken Breast recipe is your secret weapon for perfectly juicy, flavorful chicken made right on your stovetop, every single time. It's designed to deliver a restaurant-quality meal without the fuss, ready faster than takeout. The secret to this recipe's success is a combination of well-chosen seasonings and a strategic cooking method that ensures a perfectly juicy chicken breast every time. By simply seasoning the chicken and cooking it in a hot skillet with a touch of butter, you create a beautiful crust while locking in moisture, preventing the dry, bland chicken many home cooks struggle with. This approach ensures maximum flavor with minimal effort. When you cook this pan-seared chicken, expect a delightful sensory experience. The aroma of garlic, smoked paprika, and oregano will fill your kitchen as the chicken cooks, building anticipation for a truly flavorful meal. You’ll be treated to chicken that boasts a beautiful golden-brown sear on the outside, a testament to the hot skillet's magic, while remaining exceptionally tender and moist on the inside. This dish strikes a perfect balance: rich, savory, and with a gentle warmth from the cayenne, it promises a satisfying taste without being overly complicated. It’s a quick, easy way to put a high-quality, delicious protein on the table. While this recipe shines with its balanced seasoning, feel free to adjust the spice level to your preference—add a little more cayenne for extra heat, or less for a milder approach. If you only have larger chicken breasts, remember to slice them in half lengthways to ensure even cooking and that coveted juiciness. You can also experiment with other dried herbs like thyme or rosemary if you're looking to change up the flavor profile slightly. This versatile pan-seared chicken is ready in a flash, making it perfect for a weeknight family dinner or meal prepping for the days ahead. Serve it alongside your favorite steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta for a complete and satisfying meal.