How to Cook Chicken Breast in a Pan
To cook chicken breast in a skillet, follow these easy steps to achieve juicy and flavorful results. The process is quick and simple, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
I've noticed that many people are unsure about how to cook chicken breasts properly, so I wanted to share my go-to method with you. It's important to avoid dry and tasteless chicken, so I've put together a detailed tutorial to help you get it just right.
Why Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts are a Favorite
Pan-searing chicken breasts is my preferred method because it's fast, easy, and results in deliciously browned meat. Unlike baking, pan-searing creates a beautiful crust on the outside of the chicken, adding extra flavor. Plus, you can customize the seasoning to create different flavor profiles each time.
I like to cook a batch of chicken breasts at the beginning of the week, slice them up, and store them for easy additions to salads, sandwiches, pasta, or bowls. It's a simple way to have protein ready to go for any meal.
Cooking Boneless vs. Bone-In Chicken Breasts
For this method, I focus on boneless chicken breasts, as they cook more quickly and evenly. If you're using bone-in chicken breasts, it's best to use the oven to ensure they cook through without burning the outside.
How Long to Cook Chicken Breasts in a Skillet
The cooking time for chicken breasts can vary based on their thickness, heat level, and cookware. To eliminate guesswork, I recommend using an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165ºF.
- Thick Chicken Breasts: For boneless breasts around one inch thick, cook for about 8 minutes per side over medium-low heat.
- Thin Chicken Breasts: Thinner breasts or filleted chicken cook faster, about 4-5 minutes per side over medium heat.
Seasoning Chicken Breasts
While I used a smoky seasoning in the recipe below, there are endless options for seasoning your chicken breasts. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and marinades to create unique flavors each time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts
1. Season the chicken breasts liberally on both sides with your chosen seasoning blend.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add your favorite cooking oil.
3. Cook the chicken breasts without flipping for 8 minutes (or 5 minutes for thin cut breasts). Flip once and cook until well browned and cooked through.
4. For extra flavor, add butter to the skillet and coat the chicken before serving.
5. Allow the cooked chicken to rest for five minutes before slicing and serving.
By following these steps, you'll be able to create delicious pan-seared chicken breasts that are juicy, tender, and full of flavor. It's a versatile and convenient cooking method that's perfect for any occasion.
I've noticed that many people are unsure about how to cook chicken breasts properly, so I wanted to share my go-to method with you. It's important to avoid dry and tasteless chicken, so I've put together a detailed tutorial to help you get it just right.
Why Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts are a Favorite
Pan-searing chicken breasts is my preferred method because it's fast, easy, and results in deliciously browned meat. Unlike baking, pan-searing creates a beautiful crust on the outside of the chicken, adding extra flavor. Plus, you can customize the seasoning to create different flavor profiles each time.
I like to cook a batch of chicken breasts at the beginning of the week, slice them up, and store them for easy additions to salads, sandwiches, pasta, or bowls. It's a simple way to have protein ready to go for any meal.
Cooking Boneless vs. Bone-In Chicken Breasts
For this method, I focus on boneless chicken breasts, as they cook more quickly and evenly. If you're using bone-in chicken breasts, it's best to use the oven to ensure they cook through without burning the outside.
How Long to Cook Chicken Breasts in a Skillet
The cooking time for chicken breasts can vary based on their thickness, heat level, and cookware. To eliminate guesswork, I recommend using an instant-read meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165ºF.
- Thick Chicken Breasts: For boneless breasts around one inch thick, cook for about 8 minutes per side over medium-low heat.
- Thin Chicken Breasts: Thinner breasts or filleted chicken cook faster, about 4-5 minutes per side over medium heat.
Seasoning Chicken Breasts
While I used a smoky seasoning in the recipe below, there are endless options for seasoning your chicken breasts. Experiment with different herbs, spices, and marinades to create unique flavors each time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts
1. Season the chicken breasts liberally on both sides with your chosen seasoning blend.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add your favorite cooking oil.
3. Cook the chicken breasts without flipping for 8 minutes (or 5 minutes for thin cut breasts). Flip once and cook until well browned and cooked through.
4. For extra flavor, add butter to the skillet and coat the chicken before serving.
5. Allow the cooked chicken to rest for five minutes before slicing and serving.
By following these steps, you'll be able to create delicious pan-seared chicken breasts that are juicy, tender, and full of flavor. It's a versatile and convenient cooking method that's perfect for any occasion.
