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Perfect Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast Recipe Easy Juicy Homemade Dinner

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A simple and quick recipe for juicy, tender chicken breasts that are perfect for any occasion. This method uses a quick brine and pan-searing to lock in moisture and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 ounces / 170–225 grams each)
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 2 cups (480 ml) cold water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • A few sprigs of thyme or rosemary (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the brine: In a large bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon kosher salt and 1 teaspoon sugar in 2 cups (480 ml) cold water. Stir until fully dissolved.
  2. Brine the chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the brine, ensuring they’re fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat your pan: Remove the chicken from the brine and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
  4. Season the chicken: Sprinkle both sides with ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon paprika. Drizzle the lemon juice over the chicken.
  5. Sear the chicken: Place the breasts in the hot pan without crowding. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until the underside is golden brown and releases easily from the pan.
  6. Flip and finish cooking: Turn the breasts over using tongs. Reduce heat to medium-low, add fresh herbs (if using) around the chicken, and cover the pan loosely with a lid. Cook for another 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
  7. Rest the chicken: Transfer the chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes.
  8. Slice and serve: Slice against the grain and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before searing to avoid steaming. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking. Rest chicken after cooking to lock in juices. Do not brine longer than 30 minutes to prevent saltiness. Can finish cooking in oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes if preferred.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken breast, juicy chicken, easy chicken recipe, quick dinner, healthy chicken, pan-seared chicken, brined chicken

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/perfect-melt-in-your-mouth-chicken-breast-recipe-easy-juicy-homemade-dinner/