How to Cook Juicy Chicken Breast on a Pan

Preparing the Chicken Breast

Before cooking your chicken breast on a pan, it’s essential to prepare it properly to ensure that it cooks evenly and stays juicy. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Remove the chicken breast from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This will help the chicken cook evenly.
2. Use paper towels to pat the chicken breast dry. Moisture on the surface of the chicken will prevent it from browning properly.
3. Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs you prefer. You can use a dry rub or a marinade for added flavor.
4. If the chicken breast is thick, you may want to butterfly it. To do this, place the chicken breast on a cutting board, with the flattest side facing down. Cut horizontally through the thickest part of the breast, almost all the way through, and then open it up like a book.
5. Finally, if desired, you can pound the chicken breast to an even thickness using a meat mallet or a rolling pin. This will help it cook more evenly and quickly.

Once your chicken breast is prepared, it’s ready to be cooked on a pan.

Choosing the Right Pan and Heat Level

Choosing the right pan and heat level is crucial when cooking chicken breast on a pan. Here are some tips to help you choose the right pan and heat level:

1. Use a heavy-bottomed pan that is large enough to fit your chicken breast comfortably. A stainless steel or cast-iron pan works best because it retains heat well.
2. Preheat your pan over medium-high heat for a few minutes before adding any oil or chicken. This will help the chicken cook evenly.
3. Once the pan is hot, add a small amount of oil, such as olive oil or vegetable oil. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom evenly.
4. Adjust the heat to medium-high. You want the pan to be hot enough to brown the chicken but not so hot that it burns.
5. To test if the pan is hot enough, you can sprinkle a few drops of water on the pan. If the water sizzles and evaporates immediately, the pan is ready.

Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breast and the heat level of your stove, so be sure to keep an eye on your chicken as it cooks.

Cooking the Chicken Breast on the Pan

Now that your chicken breast is prepared, and your pan is hot, it’s time to cook the chicken breast. Here’s how to do it:

1. Carefully place the chicken breast in the pan, smooth side down. Do not overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the chicken breast in batches.
2. Cook the chicken breast for about 6-7 minutes on one side until it is golden brown. Resist the urge to move the chicken around in the pan; let it cook undisturbed to get a nice sear.
3. Flip the chicken breast over and cook for an additional 6-7 minutes on the other side. If the chicken breast is thick, you may want to reduce the heat slightly and cover the pan to help it cook through.
4. To ensure that the chicken is cooked through, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the chicken breast.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This will help the juices redistribute, ensuring that the chicken stays juicy.

And that’s it! With these simple steps, you can cook a perfectly juicy chicken breast on a pan.

Checking for Doneness and Resting Time

Checking for doneness is crucial when cooking chicken breast to ensure that it is safe to eat. Here’s how to check for doneness and how to let the chicken breast rest:

1. To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast. The temperature should read 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut into the thickest part of the chicken breast to check for any pinkness or rawness. If the chicken is still pink or raw, continue cooking it for a few more minutes.
2. Once the chicken breast is cooked through, remove it from the pan and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it juicier and more flavorful.
3. To rest the chicken breast, transfer it to a cutting board and cover it loosely with foil. This will help keep the chicken warm and prevent it from drying out.
4. After the resting time, slice the chicken breast against the grain and serve it with your favorite sides or use it in salads, sandwiches, or any other dish you like.

Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breast and the heat level of your stove, so be sure to keep an eye on your chicken as it cooks.

Serving and Enjoying Your Perfectly Cooked Chicken Breast

Now that your chicken breast is cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy it. Here are some tips on how to serve and enjoy your perfectly cooked chicken breast:

1. Slice the chicken breast against the grain to make it more tender and easier to eat.
2. Serve the chicken breast with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes.
3. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can use the leftovers in salads, sandwiches, or any other dish you like.
4. To reheat the chicken breast, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
5. Enjoy your perfectly cooked chicken breast! Remember, with a little bit of preparation and the right cooking technique, you can create a juicy and flavorful chicken breast that will impress your family and friends.