Description
Discover the secrets to cooking chicken breasts that are always juicy and flavorful. With three simple tricks, you’ll transform your chicken into a delicious meal every time!
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Water
- Salt (1 tablespoon per cup of water)
- Sugar (optional)
- Bay leaf (optional)
- Peppercorns (optional)
- Olive oil or avocado oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Dried oregano
- Black pepper
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Apple cider vinegar (optional)
- Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Trick #1: Brine Your Chicken – In a large bowl or container, dissolve 1 tablespoon of salt per cup of water. Submerge your chicken breasts completely in the brine. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, and up to 4 hours. After brining, remove the chicken, rinse it thoroughly under cold water, then pat it very dry with paper towels.
- Trick #2: Pound to Even Thickness – Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, rolling pin, or the bottom of a heavy pan, gently pound the thickest part until the entire breast is an even ¾ to 1 inch thick.
- Season Generously – Drizzle a little olive oil over both sides of the chicken, then sprinkle generously with your chosen spices. Rub the seasoning into the chicken so it adheres well.
- Preheat Your Pan Properly – Use a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat and let it get hot for 3-5 minutes before adding any oil. Add about 1-2 tablespoons of oil to the hot pan and swirl to coat the bottom.
- Sear and Cook – Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot pan. Let them sear undisturbed for 4-6 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4-6 minutes or until a thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F (74°C).
- Trick #3: Don't Overcook & Let it Rest! – Once your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), immediately remove it from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Loosely tent the chicken with foil and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Prep Time: 30 mins (plus brining time)
- Cook Time: 12 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 740 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 31 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: Brining is essential for moisture. Pounding ensures even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Letting the chicken rest after cooking is crucial for juiciness.