Grab your best skillet because today, we are making pan-seared chicken breasts with golden brown crusts and juicy, tender meat.

It’s a simple and easy recipe that I will show you how to perfect pan fried chicken in your favorite skillet.

I still get excited when I come across a new recipe that looks super tasty and 95% of the time, it involves chicken. Who would’ve guessed? I mean it is one of the most versatile sources of protein, and I love that I can cook chicken in 50 different ways without anyone complaining.  

And today’s recipe is one of the most popular methods to cook chicken: pan-searing. 

It’s a dish we are familiar with eating and incredibly easy to perfect for all your mealtime needs. Check out how I make this easy chicken recipe in the video below.

So, are you ready to make some delicious chicken? Good. Here we go.

What is Searing?

Searing or pan-frying is a cooking technique in which the meat’s surface gets a nice golden brown crust on the outside. It’s what helps lock in moisture and gives chicken and other meats that mouthwatering look.

The trick to getting the perfect sear on chicken is a greased HOT skillet. I like to make sure my skillet is at the right temperature by adding a few water droplets. If they sizzle on the skillet’s surface- you’re ready to roll.

How to Cook Chicken Breasts on the Stove

Making pan-fried chicken breasts on the stove-top is as simple as it gets. Follow the directions below and you’ll have juicy, tender chicken every time.

1. Marinate
   Prepare the chicken marinade according to the recipe.
   
2. Heat
   In a large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.
   
3. Sear
   Place chicken breasts in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 6 to 7 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F.
   
4. Rest
   Remove the chicken from heat and allow to rest 5 minutes before slicing.
   
5. Serve
   Whip up your favorite sides or make a large salad, and dinner is served!

Is Pan Seared Chicken Healthy?

Pan searing is a healthy cooking method for chicken that uses minimal oil and ingredients while maximizing flavor. I also love that it’s an easy option to prep ahead and keep in the fridge as a protein source for various meals like my Mediterranean Farro Bowls or salads for lunches throughout the week.  

How long Should You Cook Chicken Breasts in a Pan?

The key to cooking juicy chicken in a pan is to cook for temperature and not time. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F, it’s ready to be removed from heat. Keeping it there longer will only result in a dry, rubbery piece of chicken, no matter how long you marinated it.

How do you Pan Fry chicken breasts without burning them?

Since no one likes burnt, dry chicken; here’s how to make sure that doesn’t happen:

Make sure the cuts of chicken are even in size.
This prevents that sticky situation of some cuts cooking faster than others.

Keep the heat at medium-high
If the temperature is too high, the oil will burn and the chicken’s surface will be cooked and the center still raw, which results in dry, bitter-tasting chicken. Keep the heat to medium-high, and everything will be just fine.

Best Skillet to Use for Pan Seared Chicken

A quality skillet that heats evenly is important for making perfect pan-seared chicken breasts or any recipe, for that matter. I love my cast-iron skillet for cooking all cuts of meat and even vegetables. Not only does it add flavor, but it never fails to give its contents those beautiful golden brown edges.

My stainless steel pan is also a close second and versatile for sautéing, pasta, and other one-skillet dinners.

How to Cook Chicken Pieces in a Pan

In less than 10 minutes you’ll have tender chicken pieces with golden brown crusts you can toss into a stir fry, pasta, or serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Here’s how to make them:

Prep and Marinate
Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Prepare the chicken marinade according to the recipe and add the chicken pieces. Marinate as directed.

Heat
In a large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.

Sear
Place chicken pieces in the skillet and cook undisturbed for 4 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165F.

Serve
Remove from heat and add to your favorite recipe.

What to Serve with Pan Seared Chicken

While pan-seared chicken is delicious all by itself, I’m certain you’ll want to serve it with a couple of side dishes, and below are a few of my favorite healthy options for chicken recipes.

• Roasted Vegetables
• Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
• Brussels Sprouts & Bacon
• Sweet Potato Salad
• Parmesan Green Bean Fries

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