This Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavor! It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner with loved ones.
I love how quickly this recipe comes together. Just season, bake, and enjoy that deliciously smooth chicken. Trust me, you’ll want to make this weekly! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe since they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you want, you can substitute with thighs for more flavor, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with browning. You can use any oil with a high smoke point, like avocado or canola oil, if you prefer.
Herbs and Spices: The dried Italian herbs give a wonderful flavor. Feel free to swap with your favorite herbs, like fresh rosemary or thyme, for a fresh twist.
Chicken Broth or White Wine: This optional addition keeps the chicken juicy and adds depth. You can skip it or substitute with vegetable broth or even water if needed.
How Do I Achieve That Perfect Golden Brown Sear?
Searing the chicken properly is key to getting that nice golden color and locking in all the juices. Here’s how to do it right:
- First, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. A hot pan promotes browning.
- Add olive oil and wait until it shimmers before placing the chicken in the pan.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan! If there isn’t enough space, sear in batches.
- Once you add the chicken, let it cook untouched for 2-3 minutes. This allows a crust to form.
- If the chicken sticks to the pan at first, give it a little more time. It will release when it’s ready.
Following these steps will ensure you get that delicious, crispy sear that makes your chicken irresistible!
Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of thyme, oregano, and basil)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional for extra juiciness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, totaling about 25 minutes to serve a delicious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This gives it time to heat up while you prep the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and use paper towels to pat them dry. This will help them sear properly without steaming.
3. Seasoning the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried Italian herbs. Mix them well. Next, rub the chicken breasts all over with olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides.
4. Searing the Chicken:
Heat a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step is key to locking in flavor!
5. Adding Flavor:
Once the chicken is nicely browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet and pour melted butter over the chicken. This adds extra flavor and richness.
6. Adding Moisture:
If you like, pour the chicken broth or white wine into the skillet around the chicken. This helps keep everything juicy while it bakes.
7. Baking in the Oven:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for it to be fully cooked.
8. Resting the Chicken:
After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve it hot and enjoy your melt-in-your-mouth chicken breast!
Happy cooking!
FAQ: Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure a better sear.
How Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb?
To keep this recipe low-carb, simply serve the chicken with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad instead of starchy sides like rice or pasta. You can also skip the optional broth or wine if you wish!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I Marinate the Chicken in Advance?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken for a few hours (or overnight) with the olive oil and herbs can enhance flavor and tenderness. Just make sure to remove excess marinade before cooking for that golden sear!
