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Simple Pan-Seared Lemon Herb Chicken Breast

This dish features tender chicken breasts cooked in a cast iron skillet, seasoned with garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. The chicken is seared until golden and juicy, then finished with a splash of lemon juice and fresh herbs for a bright, flavorful finish. The result is a beautifully browned, succulent chicken with a vibrant citrus aroma, perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts preferably fresh and evenly thick
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil mild-flavored preferred
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika smoked or sweet
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
  • 1 lemon lemon juiced for brightness
  • fresh herbs thyme or parsley, chopped

Equipment

  • Cast-iron skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs
  • Sharp Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Paper towels
  • Lemon Juicer

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and season generously with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides.
  2. Preheat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot and just beginning to shimmer, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add a splash of olive oil to the skillet, swirling to coat the surface evenly. When the oil starts to shimmer and slightly smoke, carefully lay the chicken breasts in the pan, smooth side down.
  4. Cook the chicken without moving it for 6-7 minutes, until the underside is golden brown and releases easily from the pan.
  5. Flip the chicken breasts using tongs and cook for another 5-6 minutes, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer until it reaches 75°C (165°F).
  6. If the outside browns too quickly, lower the heat slightly. Gently turn the chicken if it sticks, and adjust heat to prevent burning.
  7. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the rested chicken and sprinkle with chopped herbs for a bright, aromatic finish.
  9. Slice the chicken against the grain for tender bites, then serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.