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Quick Seared Lemon Herb Chicken Breasts

This dish features juicy, tender chicken breasts quickly seared in a hot skillet until golden and crispy on the outside. Brightened with fresh lemon, garlic, and herbs, it offers a flavorful, satisfying main course with a moist interior. Perfect for a fast, versatile dinner that looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts patted dry
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
  • 1 large lemon zested and juiced
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh thyme
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a good sear.
  2. Sprinkle both sides of the chicken generously with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and lemon zest, pressing the seasonings into the meat for even coverage.
  3. Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then pour in the olive oil, allowing it to heat until just starting to smoke.
  4. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet carefully, presentation side down first, and let them sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the underside releases easily from the pan.
  5. Flip the chicken using tongs, then add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) and is cooked through.
  6. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken, allowing the bright, tangy flavor to soak in as the chicken finishes cooking and develops a slight glaze.
  7. Remove the skillet from heat and let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist, tender bite.
  8. Slice the chicken breasts against the grain, then serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired and a squeeze of fresh lemon for extra brightness.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of chicken broth when searing for a bit of steam and moisture.