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Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast

A tender and flavorful chicken dish that feels like a family recipe, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 to 1.25 pounds) Pound to even thickness if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped.
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For a higher smoke point.
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth Or white wine.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Optional, brightens flavors.
  • to taste fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and pound them to an even 1/2-inch thickness if needed.
  2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes.
Cooking
  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
  2. When the fat is shimmering, place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook without moving for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
  3. Flip the chicken, add the remaining butter, and cook for another 3–5 minutes until done.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth (or wine) and add lemon juice if using. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
  5. Check for doneness with an instant-read thermometer; remove when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Let rest for 3–5 minutes, then spoon the pan sauce over the chicken and sprinkle with parsley.

Notes

For variations, consider adding Dijon mustard for a festive twist or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean spin. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.