Craving a quick, healthy, and delicious meal? This perfect fried chicken breasts recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a fast and flavorful protein option. With just a few ingredients and a simple cooking technique, you can have perfectly juicy, golden-brown chicken breasts on your plate in no time.
1. Pan Fried Chicken Breast Recipe
Ingredients
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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2 tbsp olive oil (1 tbsp for rubbing and 1 tbsp for cooking)
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1 tsp kosher salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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2 cloves garlic, pressed
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1 tsp dried parsley
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1/2 tsp dried thyme
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1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (plus more for taste)
Instructions
Prep the Chicken Breasts: Begin by cutting each chicken breast in half lengthwise. This helps the chicken cook evenly and reduces cooking time.
Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, parsley, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Add the pressed garlic to the mix for an extra burst of flavor. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts.
Preheat the Pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and let it heat up for a few minutes. Once the pan is hot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and swirl it around to coat the bottom of the skillet.
Cook the Chicken: Once the oil is shimmering but not smoking, place the chicken breasts in the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side without moving them too much. This helps achieve a golden-brown crust. When flipping, use tongs to avoid puncturing the meat.
Rest the Chicken: Once cooked through ( internal temperature of 165°F – 75°C ), remove the chicken breasts from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice the chicken against the grain and serve. The result is a perfectly seasoned, golden brown chicken breast that’s juicy inside and flavorful all around.
2. Tips for Perfect Pan Fried Chicken Breasts
Flatten the Chicken: If your chicken breasts are uneven in thickness, consider flattening them with a meat mallet or rolling pin before cooking. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out in some parts while being undercooked in others.
Control the Heat: It’s tempting to turn the heat up high to get the chicken cooked quickly, but this can cause the outside to burn before the inside cooks through. Stick to medium-high heat and adjust as needed. You can always finish the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) if you’re worried about undercooking.
Use Fresh Spices: While dried herbs and spices are great for this recipe, fresh garlic and freshly ground black pepper will elevate the flavors even more. If you have them on hand, don’t hesitate to swap them in for a richer taste.
Resting Is Key: After cooking, allow your chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This makes a big difference in the juiciness of the meat. If you cut into the chicken right away, the juices will escape, leaving you with a drier result.
3. What to Eat with Pan Fried Chicken Breasts
Pan-fried chicken breasts are incredibly versatile, so you can pair them with just about anything. When I make this dish, I love to serve it with sides that complement the crispiness of the chicken. Here are a few of my favorite ideas:
Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts brings a lovely earthy flavor to the table. The caramelized edges of the roasted veggies pair beautifully with the seasoned chicken.
Mashed Potatoes: You can never go wrong with mashed potatoes. Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are the perfect balance to the crispy chicken. If you want a healthier option, try mashed cauliflower for a lower-carb alternative.
Salads: A light, refreshing salad works wonders alongside pan-fried chicken. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad with lemon and olive oil. The brightness of the salad balances the richness of the chicken.
Rice Pilaf: If you’re in the mood for something hearty, rice pilaf makes for a fantastic side. The rice’s fluffy texture and subtle flavors make it an ideal base for soaking up any extra juices from the chicken.
Pasta: For a more substantial meal, serve the chicken on a bed of pasta. A simple lemon butter sauce or pesto works wonderfully with pan-fried chicken. I love the combination of a creamy pasta with the crunch of the chicken.
As for drinks, a light white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a cold iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lemon works just as well.
This perfect pan fried chicken breast recipe is the perfect solution when you need a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation, you can have tender, juicy chicken breasts that pair well with almost any side dish.
