Perfectly Cooked Chicken Breast Recipe

The best method for cooking juicy, tender, flavorful, and perfect chicken breasts every time!

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword chicken breast, healthy meals, how to

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Rest time 10

Total Time 40

Servings servings

Calories 298kcal

PREP: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Trim excess fat or cartilage from chicken breasts. Pat chicken dry with a paper towel. Pre-heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
SEASON: Mix together ingredients for chicken seasoning, and season the chicken breasts evenly. I like to add the seasoning to a large resealable bag with the chicken and shake it around for about 30 seconds until the breasts are well coated.
SEAR: Add oil to the pan and swirl to coat. Place seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until a browned crust forms.
BAKE: After the breasts are browned on each side, transfer the whole skillet to the oven and bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part, about 10-15 minutes.
REST: Transfer chicken from the pan to a cutting board and rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing or serving.

If you double the recipe, or have a smaller cast iron skillet, you will have to sear the chicken in batches and bake on a baking sheet. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. After you sear the chicken on both sides, transfer it to the baking sheet. Then bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 10-15 minutes.
If you're not using a cast iron skillet, make sure the pan you are using is oven safe.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Freeze in a freezer safe container for 2-3 months.
Make ahead: Prepare chicken as normal, and store in the refrigerator once cooled. Reheat per directions below.
Reheat: Pull chicken out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Slice the chicken breast into thick 1 inch slices. Add a little oil to the pan with a splash of water or chicken broth. Once the liquid is simmering, add chicken pieces to the hot pan, cover, and cook for 1-2 minutes each side until reheated.