Juicy Pan-Seared Chicken Breast

Sliced pan-seared chicken breast with a golden crust and brown-butter jus on a white plate, with a lemon wedge.

Yield: 2 servings Total Time: 30–40 min (includes dry brine)

Gear: Cast-iron or carbon steel, instant-read thermometer, optional splatter screen

Ingredients

  • 2 skinless chicken breasts (~200 g each)
  • 1% salt by weight (~4 g total), 1 g black pepper, 1 g garlic powder
  • 15 ml olive oil, 20 g unsalted butter, 1/2 lemon

Steps to Make It

Step 1: Dry-brine with salt, pepper, garlic powder; rest 30 min (10 min minimum).

Step 2: Heat oil medium-high. Place breasts smooth side down; sear 2–3 min until golden.

Step 3: Flip; reduce to medium. Add butter; spoon-baste 3–4 min.

Step 4: Target 68–70 °C internal; remove and rest 5 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with lemon juice; slice and serve.

Cook Tips

  • Butterfly the thick end if needed for even cooking.
  • Pat very dry to encourage a good sear.

Quick Reference

  • Step 1: Dry-brine 30 min.
  • Step 2: Sear smooth side down 2–3 min.
  • Step 3: Flip; butter-baste 3–4 min.
  • Step 4: Pull at 68–70 °C; rest 5 min.
  • Step 5: Lemon; slice.

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