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Oven-Baked Seared Chicken Breasts

This dish features chicken breasts that are seared to achieve a crispy golden crust and then baked to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy meat with a flavorful exterior. The process involves a quick sear in a hot skillet followed by oven baking, highlighting simple ingredients and precise techniques to ensure moistness and browning. The final appearance is a beautifully browned, crispy skin with succulent, evenly cooked meat inside.
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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 Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts preferably skinless or skin-on based on preference
  • 1 teaspoon salt to season the chicken
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground if possible
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky flavor and color
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for searing and roasting
  • 1 whole lemon for squeezing over cooked chicken
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder adds savory depth
  • optional fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, chopped

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Meat thermometer
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and set a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Pat the chicken breasts dry thoroughly with paper towels to help them crisp during searing.
  3. Mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a small bowl, then generously season both sides of each chicken breast with this spice blend.
  4. Add a tablespoon of olive oil to the hot skillet, letting it shimmer and become fragrant.
  5. Place the chicken breasts in the skillet, skin-side down if skin-on, and sear for about 2-3 minutes until the edges turn golden and crispy, listening for a gentle sizzle.
  6. Flip the chicken using tongs and sear the other side for another 2-3 minutes until similarly golden brown.
  7. Transfer the skillet directly to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 75°C (165°F).
  8. Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and loosely cover with foil. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to reabsorb juices.
  9. Squeeze fresh lemon over the rested chicken to brighten the flavors, and sprinkle with chopped herbs if using.
  10. Slice the chicken breasts and serve immediately, showcasing the crispy crust and juicy interior.

Notes

Ensure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy. Adjust oven temperature if crust starts to burn before the internal temperature is reached.