Imagine a dish that transforms an ordinary chicken breast into a gourmet experience that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Chicken Breast with Goat Cheese recipe is not just a meal; it's a culinary journey that combines the tender juiciness of perfectly seared chicken with the luxurious, tangy embrace of creamy goat cheese. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup goat cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve better browning.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers and becomes fragrant.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust develops.
- Remove the skillet from the stovetop and spread a generous layer of goat cheese evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
- Transfer the skillet directly into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the cheese to set slightly.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for added flavor and visual appeal.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
- Pat Dry for Perfect Sear: The secret to a golden-brown crust is removing excess moisture from the chicken breasts before cooking.
- Choose Quality Goat Cheese: Opt for a fresh, creamy goat cheese that melts beautifully and adds rich flavor to the dish.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking helps redistribute juices, ensuring each bite is moist and tender.
- Customize Your Herbs: While the recipe suggests thyme or parsley, feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or basil to match your taste preferences.
- Skillet Selection: Use an oven-safe skillet to seamlessly transition from stovetop to oven, minimizing dish cleanup.
- Portion Control: This recipe serves 4, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep with easy scaling options.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 135mg
