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Pan-Seared Chicken Breast with Citrus Glaze

This dish features chicken breasts that are pounded to an even thickness, seared until golden and crispy, then finished with a bright citrus glaze made from lemon juice and white wine. The result is a juicy, tender chicken with a flavorful, slightly smoky crust and a zesty finish, perfect for a quick yet special meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: International
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts skinless, boneless
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for searing
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika adds smoky depth
  • 1/4 cup white wine for deglazing
  • 2 tablespoons fresh herbs parsley or thyme, chopped
  • to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Equipment

  • Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
  • Meat tenderizer or rolling pin
  • Tongs
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Ladle or small spoon

Method
 

  1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound with a meat tenderizer or rolling pin until about 1.5 cm thick for even cooking.
  2. Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat until it feels hot but not smoking, about 160°C (320°F).
  3. Season both sides of the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to enhance flavor and create a smoky crust.
  4. Add a splash of olive oil to the hot skillet, swirling to coat the bottom evenly. Once shimmering, carefully lay the chicken breasts in the pan, listening for a gentle sizzle.
  5. Cook the chicken undisturbed for about 3 minutes, allowing the underside to develop a crispy, golden crust.
  6. Flip the chicken using tongs and cook for another 6-7 minutes, flipping once, until the other side is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
  7. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and transfer to a plate. Cover loosely with foil and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  8. Meanwhile, deglaze the skillet by pouring in lemon juice and white wine, scraping up browned bits to create a bright, flavorful glaze. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced.
  9. Slice the rested chicken breasts and arrange them on a serving plate. Spoon the citrus glaze over the top, and garnish with chopped herbs for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
  10. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy the juicy, crispy, and zesty chicken.