How to Make Chicken Like a Pro

Learn how to cook juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked chicken every time. This guide provides straightforward techniques to elevate your chicken dishes.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 21

Resting Time 10

Total Time 36

Servings: 4 chicken breasts

Course: Dinner

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

1 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts of similar size
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil, unsalted butter, or combination of both

Equipment

Frying pan
Lid
Instant-read thermometer

Method

Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using the bottom of a wide jar, glass, or a small frying pan.
Lightly season the chicken with kosher salt and black pepper.
Heat a frying pan large enough to fit the chicken in a single layer over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil or butter and swirl the pan to coat the bottom.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 1 minute without disturbing them to lightly golden one side.
Flip each chicken breast over. Reduce the heat to low.
Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid. Cook for 10 minutes without lifting the lid.
Turn off the heat (or remove the pan from an electric stove). Reset a timer for 10 minutes and leave the chicken breasts in the covered pan without peeking.
Uncover the pan. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken should be at least 165°F (74°C). Slice and serve.

Notes

This method ensures chicken is cooked evenly, remaining moist and flavorful. The resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender texture.

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