If you're craving a delicious and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, look no further than this Simple Pan Fried Chicken recipe! Perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden-brown perfection, this dish is not only a staple of American cuisine but also a surefire way to impress your family or guests. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll discover the secret to juicy, tender chicken that bursts with flavor. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Remove chicken breasts from refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking.
- Pat chicken breasts completely dry using paper towels. Moisture on the surface can prevent proper browning.
- Season both sides of chicken breasts generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Ensure even coverage for consistent flavor.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter, allowing them to melt and combine.
- When the pan is hot and butter is slightly bubbling, carefully place chicken breasts into the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure proper browning.
- Cook chicken for approximately 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving, until a golden-brown crust forms. The chicken should release easily from the pan when ready to flip.
- Flip chicken breasts and reduce heat to medium. Cook for an additional 6-7 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from pan and let rest on a clean cutting board for 5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Slice chicken against the grain and serve immediately with your preferred side dishes.
Tips
- Bring to Room Temperature: Before cooking, allow the chicken breasts to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This step promotes even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear.
- Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is key to getting that beautiful, crispy crust.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Generously season both sides of the chicken to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Preheat Your Pan: Make sure your skillet or cast-iron pan is hot before adding the chicken. A properly heated pan is crucial for achieving a golden-brown crust.
- Avoid Overcrowding: When placing the chicken in the skillet, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This allows the chicken to brown evenly and prevents steaming.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish.
- Slice Against the Grain: For the best texture, slice the chicken against the grain. This makes each piece tender and easy to chew.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 124kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 13g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 44mg
