Ultimate Recipe for Juicy Chicken Breast - Perfectly Moist and Flavorful Every Time**
Are you tired of dry, flavorless chicken breast? Look no further! This ultimate recipe for juicy chicken breast will ensure you get perfectly moist and flav……
Are you tired of dry, flavorless chicken breast? Look no further! This ultimate recipe for juicy chicken breast will ensure you get perfectly moist and flavorful chicken every time. Follow this detailed guide to elevate your chicken breast game and impress your family and friends.
### Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Chicken Breasts**:
Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This ensures that they cook evenly and remain juicy. Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or wax paper and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them to about 1/2 inch thick.
2. **Season the Chicken**:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, and dried basil. Sprinkle this seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, pressing it in gently to ensure it adheres well.
3. **Heat the Pan**:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it heat until it shimmers. This step is crucial to achieving a nice sear on the outside of the chicken breasts, which helps lock in the juices.
4. **Cook the Chicken**:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Avoid moving the chicken too much during cooking to allow a nice crust to form.
5. **Add Butter and Broth**:
Once the chicken is cooked through, reduce the heat to low and add the butter to the skillet. Let it melt and then add the chicken broth or water. This creates a flavorful sauce that keeps the chicken moist and adds extra flavor.
6. **Baste the Chicken**:
Spoon the melted butter and broth mixture over the chicken breasts to baste them. This step adds an extra layer of moisture and flavor, ensuring the chicken remains juicy.
7. **Rest the Chicken**:
Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken breasts rest in the pan for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender and juicy.
8. **Serve**:
Transfer the chicken breasts to a serving platter. Spoon some of the pan sauce over the top and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken.
### Tips for Success:
- **Don’t Overcook**: Overcooking is the main reason chicken breasts turn out dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure you cook the chicken to the perfect internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- **Even Thickness**: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness helps it cook more evenly, preventing some parts from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
- **Resting Time**: Allowing the chicken to rest after cooking ensures the juices are reabsorbed, making the meat more succulent.
By following this ultimate recipe for juicy chicken breast, you’ll achieve perfectly moist and flavorful chicken every time. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the delicious, juicy chicken that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare!