The pan-fried chicken breast comes out crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. The garlic and thyme seasoning provide a depth of flavor, complemented by the bright and zesty touch of lemon juice.
This dish is perfect for a quick yet satisfying weeknight dinner. Pair it with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a light salad, to make it a complete meal. With minimal ingredients and time, it’s a go-to recipe for busy days, without compromising on taste.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon butter
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1 garlic clove, minced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
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Add chicken breasts to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
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Add garlic to the pan during the last minute of cooking and sauté until fragrant.
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Add lemon juice to the pan and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds.
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Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 250 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Pan-fried chicken breast is one of those versatile, easy-to-make dishes that can be the star of a weeknight meal or the perfect protein for a meal prep session. It’s a dish that, while seemingly simple, has the potential to be elevated with the right techniques and seasonings. Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this dish can be customized to fit a variety of tastes, while still maintaining its core appeal: juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy, golden crust.
The Simplicity and Versatility of Pan-Fried Chicken Breast
One of the main reasons why pan-fried chicken breast is such a popular recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform an ordinary chicken breast into a delicious meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility you can tweak it to suit your taste preferences, experiment with different herbs and spices, or add unique ingredients to make it your own.
The technique itself is straightforward: you sear the chicken breasts in a hot pan, allowing the exterior to form a crispy, golden crust while the inside remains juicy and tender. The key to a perfectly cooked pan-fried chicken breast is ensuring the meat stays moist while achieving that satisfying crispy crust. The cooking time needs to be just right, and controlling the heat is crucial to avoid burning the chicken or making it dry.
Flavor Profile: A Balanced Combination of Savory, Zesty, and Herby
Pan-fried chicken breasts are a blank canvas, which means the flavors you add are incredibly important. For a simple yet vibrant taste, garlic and lemon make an excellent combination. Garlic brings in that rich, savory flavor, while lemon adds a refreshing, zesty twist that cuts through the richness of the chicken. Together, they create a flavor profile that is bright and balanced.
Thyme, a fragrant herb often paired with chicken, complements the garlic and lemon perfectly. The subtle, earthy flavor of thyme elevates the dish and adds an aromatic depth. You can also experiment with other herbs, such as rosemary, oregano, or basil, depending on your flavor preferences. Additionally, using a combination of olive oil and butter to cook the chicken results in a rich, slightly nutty flavor while keeping the chicken moist and tender.
Cooking Technique: The Art of Pan-Frying Chicken Breast
When it comes to pan-frying chicken breast, the key to achieving perfect results is controlling the heat and avoiding overcooking. Chicken breasts are lean, meaning they can easily dry out if cooked too long or at too high a heat. That’s why it’s important to cook the chicken over medium to medium-high heat.
Starting with a hot pan is essential to ensure the chicken breast sears properly, forming that delicious golden crust. However, it’s also crucial not to let the pan get too hot. If the temperature is too high, the exterior may burn before the interior is cooked through. A little patience goes a long way here – cook the chicken on each side for a few minutes, flipping only once to achieve that crispy golden texture.
One technique to ensure juiciness is to use a meat thermometer. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Another tip is to rest the chicken for a few minutes after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices inside the meat, ensuring a moist and tender result when you cut into it.
Variations and Customizations: Personalizing the Recipe
While the classic pan-fried chicken breast is wonderful on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize it based on your tastes. One option is to marinate the chicken beforehand. A simple marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs will infuse the chicken with even more flavor. Marinating for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, can make a significant difference in the taste of the chicken.
Another option is to coat the chicken in a light flour or breadcrumbs before cooking. This adds an extra layer of texture and crunch to the crust. If you’re looking to make the dish a bit more decadent, a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze can add a sweet touch that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors.
For those following a specific dietary plan, you can easily adapt this dish to be gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or skipping the coating altogether. You can also make it dairy-free by cooking the chicken in olive oil alone, or by using a non-dairy butter substitute.
Meal Prep and Serving Ideas
One of the best things about pan-fried chicken breast is its versatility when it comes to meal prep. Since chicken breasts are quick to cook and store well in the fridge, they make an excellent choice for meal prep. After cooking, slice the chicken into strips or cubes, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. This makes it easy to add to salads, wraps, or bowls throughout the week.
Pan-fried chicken breast can also be paired with a variety of sides to create a balanced and satisfying meal. For a light, healthy option, pair it with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, serve the chicken with mashed potatoes, quinoa, or a creamy risotto.
For a Mediterranean twist, try serving it with a side of hummus, tzatziki, or a fresh tabbouleh salad. The beauty of this dish is its ability to pair well with so many different flavor profiles, making it a fantastic base for exploring new ingredients and cuisines.
Conclusion:
Pan-fried chicken breast is a versatile, flavorful dish that can easily be adapted to fit any meal plan. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a gathering, it’s a dish that pleases everyone. With a crispy golden crust and juicy interior, it’s sure to become a favorite in your cooking rotation.
What makes this dish so great is that it’s both simple and adaptable. The flavor profile can be customized to suit a wide range of tastes, and it pairs well with virtually any side dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a healthy meal prep option, or an elegant meal for guests, pan-fried chicken breast is the perfect choice.
Next time you’re in need of a quick and satisfying meal, try this simple yet delicious pan-fried chicken breast recipe. With just a few ingredients and the right technique, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked chicken breast that is tender, flavorful, and satisfying every time.