Pan-Fried Chicken Breast is a quick, simple, and incredibly flavorful way to cook chicken. The key to perfectly pan-fried chicken is to achieve a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. This method uses a few basic ingredients like olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs to elevate the natural flavor of the chicken, making it a versatile option for everything from weeknight dinners to meal prepping. With its crispy, golden crust and succulent center, this chicken breast is the perfect base for a variety of sides, sauces, or salads.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, smashed (for extra flavor)
- Fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring a crispier crust. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and smoked paprika.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the smashed garlic cloves to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the garlic from the pan and discard (this step infuses the oil with garlic flavor).
- Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the skillet, cooking for about 6-7 minutes on one side, without moving the chicken, until a golden-brown crust forms. Flip the chicken over and reduce the heat to medium. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
- Serve: Slice the chicken against the grain and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Serve with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes.
Pan-Fried Chicken Breast is a simple yet delicious dish that brings out the best in every bite. Whether you serve it as the centerpiece of a meal or use it in salads or sandwiches, the juicy, flavorful chicken with its crispy exterior is sure to be a hit.
