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Juicy Oven-Finished Chicken Breasts

This recipe involves searing chicken breasts in a hot skillet to develop a golden crust, then finishing them in the oven to keep the meat moist and tender. The process yields flavorful, juicy chicken with a beautiful appearance, topped with a bright squeeze of lemon. Perfect for a quick, satisfying main dish with a tender interior and appealing crust.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts boneless and skinless
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika mild or smoked
  • 1 lemon lemon for squeezing after baking
  • fresh thyme or rosemary herbs optional, for flavor

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Meat thermometer
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and gather your ingredients.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels; this helps achieve a better sear.
  3. Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs generously over both sides of the chicken, pressing lightly to adhere.
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, and wait until it’s shimmering and slightly smoking.
  5. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet, presentation side down, and sear for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  6. Flip the chicken breasts using tongs and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes until equally golden.
  7. Transfer the seared chicken to a baking dish, skin side up, and place in the preheated oven.
  8. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 75°C (165°F).
  9. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes; this helps retain juices and improves tenderness.
  10. Squeeze fresh lemon over the rested chicken to brighten the flavors, and serve slices with your favorite sides.