chicken breast
This easy and flavorful pan-seared chicken breast is juicy, tender, and packed with simple seasonings. It's quick to make, perfect for a healthy meal, and pairs well with a variety of sides.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 lemon
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
- Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps the seasonings stick better and ensures a nice, crispy exterior.
Season the Chicken
- Drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides. Then, sprinkle the salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano evenly over the chicken. Don’t forget to rub the seasonings in gently to ensure they’re well-coated.
Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown. If you prefer a more intense sear, press gently on the chicken with a spatula to help it brown more evenly.
Add Garlic & Lemon
- After the chicken is nicely seared, reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken for a burst of brightness and let it cook for an additional minute to infuse the flavors.
Check for Doneness
- To ensure your chicken breasts are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken—if the juices run clear, it’s done.
Rest the Chicken
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken extra tender and juicy.