Cooking chicken breasts can feel like a delicate balancing act—too little time and it’s undercooked; too much, and it turns dry and rubbery. But with this foolproof method, you’ll achieve perfectly tender, juicy chicken every single time. Follow these simple steps, and your chicken will be flavorful, moist, and anything but sawdust-like. Thanks to Food Republic for sharing this gem!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Perfectly Juicy: The method ensures the chicken stays moist and flavorful.
- Simple Ingredients: Just chicken, olive oil, salt, and pepper—no fancy tricks required.
- Versatile: Use this technique as a base for salads, sandwiches, or standalone meals.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3):
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts 🍗
- 2 teaspoons olive oil 🫒
- Salt and pepper , to taste 🧂
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken 🥄
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them sear properly.
- Rub 1 teaspoon of olive oil evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken 🔥
- Heat the remaining 1 teaspoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat .
- Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook undisturbed until the edges turn opaque and the bottom is golden brown, about 8–10 minutes (depending on thickness).
Step 3: Flip and Finish Cooking ⏳
- Flip the chicken breasts to the other side using tongs.
- Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low , and let the chicken cook for another 10 minutes .
- Pro Tip: If your chicken breasts are especially thick, you may need an extra 2–3 minutes. Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should read 165°F (74°C) when inserted into the thickest part of the breast.
Step 4: Rest the Chicken 🕰️
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate or cutting board.
- Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful.
Tips for Success:
- Pound the Chicken: For even cooking, gently pound thicker chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
- Add Flavor: Experiment with additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth or water to retain moisture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 3):
- Calories: 160 kcal
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fat: 6g
With this simple yet reliable method , you’ll never have to worry about dry, overcooked chicken again. By searing the chicken to lock in flavor, finishing it low and slow for tenderness, and letting it rest to retain its juices, you’ll end up with perfectly cooked chicken breasts every time. Whether you’re meal prepping, whipping up dinner, or impressing guests, this technique is your go-to for juicy, delicious chicken. Patience is key—let it rest, slice it up, and enjoy!
