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Perfect Searing Chicken Breasts

This recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into tender, juicy slices with a beautifully caramelized crust. Using high heat and precise timing, the chicken is seared to golden perfection and rested to lock in moisture, resulting in a versatile and satisfying main dish with a crisp exterior and moist interior.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless, skinless
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing
  • 1 lemon lemon (optional) for squeezing over before serving
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional
  • a few sprigs fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary) for resting

Equipment

  • Cast iron skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder on both sides.
  2. Heat the cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot and starts to shimmer, about 2-3 minutes, with a faint smell of heating oil.
  3. Add the olive oil to the pan, swirling to coat the surface evenly, and listen for a gentle sizzle as the oil heats up.
  4. Place the chicken breasts in the pan, laying them away from you to avoid splashes, and let them cook undisturbed for 5-7 minutes until the edges turn golden and release easily from the pan.
  5. Flip each chicken breast using tongs, aiming for a deep golden brown crust, and cook for another 5 minutes on the second side, adjusting the heat if necessary.
  6. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of each breast; once it reads 75°C (165°F), remove the chicken from the pan.
  7. Transfer the chicken to a plate, sprinkle with fresh herbs if using, and cover loosely with foil to rest for 5 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon over the rested chicken for a bright finish, then slice against the grain to serve.

Notes

Ensure not to overcook to keep the chicken tender and juicy. Resting is key to retaining moisture.