Perfectly Panseared Juicy Chicken Fillet

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook: Fancy Some Cracking Chicken, Mate?

Ever wondered how restaurants get that perfectly juicy chicken every time? I did! That's why I'm chuffed to share this juicy chicken fillet meals recipe . Honestly, it's a game changer.

Brief Overview: From Bistro to Your Table

Pan-seared chicken has French bistro vibes. But it's easier than you think! This chicken fillet recipe is a weeknight winner. It takes under 30 minutes. This serves four hungry souls.

Main Benefits: Healthy, Quick, and Simply the Best

Chicken is packed with protein, innit? This is a great way to get your fill. Plus, it's proper quick. This best chicken fillet recipe is special because it guarantees juicy chicken every single time.

Ready to rumble? Let's dive into what you'll need for these delicious, pan-seared chicken fillets.

What Makes This Chicken Recipe So Special?

This isn't just another how to cook chicken breast guide. It's a foolproof way to get juicy chicken always. I've tried loads of quick chicken recipes , but this one? This one's a keeper.

I even had a friend, Sarah, tell me it's the easy chicken dinner she makes when she is in the mood for something quick!

The Secret Ingredient? The Brine!

Okay, so maybe it's not that secret. But a chicken brine makes all the difference. It keeps the chicken moist.

It is just salt, sugar, and water. Don’t skip it!. It really helps to make the juicy chicken .

Flavours That Pop: Lemon Herb Delight

Want to get a bit fancy? Try adding lemon and herbs. A dash of lemon zest and some thyme works wonders.

It makes a lovely chicken with lemon herb . Give it a go! You might surprise yourself.

One Pan Chicken Meals

One pan chicken meals are my favourite. They're simple and minimize washing up. Just sear the chicken and toss in some veg. Dinner is served! Quick, simple, and delicious!.

Alright, let's talk about what you need to make the best chicken fillet recipe ever! Trust me, this juicy chicken fillet meals recipe is a game changer.

Forget dry, boring chicken. This is all about that perfect sear and tender inside.

Ingredients & Equipment: Setting You Up for Success

So, you wanna make this amazing juicy chicken ? Let’s get the gear sorted! Here's what you'll need, both ingredients and equipment.

Honestly, most of it you probably already have, which is a win!

Main Ingredients

• Water: 4 cups (950ml) – tap water is fine, unless you're fancy.
• Kosher Salt: 1/4 cup (55g) . Seriously, use kosher salt if you can, it makes a difference. Table salt works in a pinch, just use 2 tablespoons .
• Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup (50g) . Light or dark, doesn't matter too much.
• Black Peppercorns: 1 teaspoon , crushed. Freshly cracked is always better, innit?
• Bay Leaf: 1 , just one.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Fillets: 4 (6-8 oz / 170-225g each) , about 1 inch thick. Get good quality chicken, you know? The better the chicken, the better the final result.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Extra virgin is my go-to.
• Unsalted Butter: 1 tablespoon (15g) . Adds that richness, you know?
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon .
• Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon .
• Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon .
• Smoked Paprika: 1/4 teaspoon . It's what gives that smoky flavour.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish.

The key here is fresh ingredients, especially for the chicken. Look for fillets that are pink and plump, not pale or slimy. You want a juicy chicken experience!

Seasoning Notes: The Secret Sauce

We're going for a classic combo here. Garlic and onion powder bring the savory vibes. Thyme adds that earthy note, and smoked paprika? Oh my gosh, it just ties it all together.

If you don't have thyme, oregano works. Want a chicken with lemon herb twist? Add some lemon zest to this mix! This easy chicken dinner will be a hit.

Want a kick?, just add some cayenne pepper to the mix. It is a pan-seared chicken perfection.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

• Large Bowl: For the optional chicken brine . If you skip the brine, no worries.
• Paper Towels: Essential for drying the chicken. Trust me on this.
• Large Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Bottomed Pan: Cast iron is amazing for searing. But any heavy bottomed pan will do.
• Meat Thermometer: CRUCIAL for checking the chicken. Don't guess!

If you don't have a cast iron, a stainless steel pan works too. Just make sure it's heavy so it distributes the heat evenly.

I remember once trying to use a really thin pan and ended up with burnt spots. A meat thermometer is non-negotiable for how to cook chicken breast perfectly.

It will turn into one of your favorite one pan chicken meals .

With this chicken fillet recipe and these tips, you are all set for quick chicken recipes success.

Right then, let's get this juicy chicken fillet meals recipe sorted! Forget those dry, boring chicken dinners you might be used to.

Honestly, I’ve had my fair share of shoe leather chicken, and I'm here to tell you: never again! This recipe is about to become your new best friend.

The Secret to Perfectly Pan-Seared Chicken

Think pan-seared chicken can be intimidating? Rubbish! This is easier than making toast, I promise. We're talking about that juicy chicken that's golden brown on the outside and melt-in-your mouth tender inside.

Ready for the best chicken fillet recipe ?

Prep Steps for Chicken Greatness

First things first, let's get our mise en place sorted, yeah? It's just a fancy way of saying "get your stuff ready".

• Essential mise en place: Grab your chicken, spices, oil, and butter.
• Time saving organization tips: Have everything measured out before you even turn on the hob. Trust me, it’s a game changer. Think of it as your "chef's kiss" for organization.
• Safety reminders: Don't be a numpty. Wash your hands after handling raw chicken. We don't want any salmonella surprises.

The Magic: step-by-step Pan-Seared Chicken

Right, listen up. Here’s how to cook chicken breast like a pro.

1. Brine Time (Optional): Whisk 4 cups water, 1/4 cup salt, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp crushed peppercorns, and 1 bay leaf. Submerge chicken for 15- 30 mins. It really amps up the juicy chicken factor.
2. Dry, Dry, Dry: Pat those fillets completely dry with paper towels. Seriously, this is key.
3. Spice it Up: Mix 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/4 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub all over the chicken.
4. Hot Pan Alert: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a cast iron skillet over medium high heat.
5. Sear Time: Place chicken in the pan. Don’t overcrowd! Cook 4- 5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
6. Temp Check: Use a meat thermometer. 165° F ( 74° C) is your magic number.
7. Rest Easy: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Now you have an easy chicken dinner !

Pro Tips for Juicy Chicken Victories

Listen, I've learned a thing or two.

• Don't move the chicken! Let it sear properly for that golden brown crust.
• Common mistake: Overcooking. A thermometer is your best friend. I use mine all the time.
• make-ahead option: You can brine the chicken the night before. It’s like giving it a spa day!

And that's it! You've now got the skills to whip up a juicy chicken fillet meals recipe any night of the week.

This isn't just a chicken fillet recipe ; it's your ticket to becoming a kitchen legend. It works well with some of the best one pan chicken meals you can imagine with chicken with lemon herb or other flavourings.

Enjoy those quick chicken recipes !.

Recipe Notes for the Best Juicy Chicken Fillet Meals Recipe

Honestly, getting juicy chicken fillet meals recipe right can be a game changer. I've had my fair share of dry chicken moments, believe me.

That's why these notes are super important. They'll help you nail this chicken fillet recipe every single time.

Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Plate

Okay, so you've got this amazing pan-seared chicken . Now what? Think about plating! A simple garnish of fresh parsley makes it look fancy.

A dollop of creamy mash potatoes? Bangin'. Roasted veggies like broccoli are also awesome. Or, how about a bright side salad? A squeeze of lemon brightens everything up.

If you're feeling a bit fancy, a simple pan sauce with butter, lemon juice, and white wine is the winner.

A little extra effort makes all the difference.

Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh

Got leftovers? No worries. Just pop that cooked chicken breast into an airtight container and stick it in the fridge.

It'll be good for about 3-4 days. To reheat, a quick zap in the microwave works. But, honestly, reheating it in a pan with a bit of oil keeps it juicy .

Freezing is also an option. Wrap the juicy chicken tightly and it'll last for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to thaw it completely before reheating.

Variations: Remix Your Chicken

This easy chicken dinner is totally adaptable. Want a chicken with lemon herb twist? Add some lemon zest and rosemary to the spice mix.

Feeling spicy? Cayenne pepper is your friend! Got dietary needs? No problem. Ditching the brine makes it lower in sodium.

Swapping out the butter for more olive oil makes it dairy-free. And for seasonal swaps, experiment with ingredients.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness Inside

Each serving of this best chicken fillet recipe is roughly 350 calories. You get a whopping 45g of protein! It's also got about 15g of fat and 5g of carbs.

Now, this is just an estimate, of course, it'll change slightly depending on your portions. But the star here is that lean protein.

It's good for building muscles and keeping you full. Plus, how to cook chicken breast like this keeps the fat content relatively low compared to other one pan chicken meals .

So, there you have it! All the extra bits and bobs to make your juicy chicken fillet meals recipe a smash hit.

Don't be afraid to experiment. Quick chicken recipes like this are all about having fun. Honestly, once you nail that sear, you're golden.

Get cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I ensure my chicken fillets are actually juicy and not dry like the Sahara?

Alright, the secret's out! Patting the chicken completely dry before searing is absolutely crucial - this helps create a proper crust and keeps the moisture locked inside. Also, don't overcook it! Use a meat thermometer and aim for 165°F (74°C).

Resting the chicken for 5 minutes after cooking is also essential, giving the juices a chance to redistribute.

Is brining really necessary for this juicy chicken fillet meals recipe? Sounds like a faff!

While optional, brining really does level up the juiciness game! Think of it as a spa day for your chicken. The salt and sugar help the chicken retain moisture during cooking, resulting in a more tender and flavorful fillet.

If you're short on time, even a 15-minute brine makes a noticeable difference, but you can skip it if you’re in a pinch.

Can I use other seasonings or spices for this juicy chicken fillet meals recipe? I fancy a bit of a twist!

Absolutely! This recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Try adding lemon zest and rosemary for a Lemon Herb twist, or cayenne pepper and extra paprika for a spicy Cajun kick. A Mediterranean version with feta and oregano would be smashing.

Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste think of it like customising your Nando's order!

How do I store leftover cooked chicken fillets, and how long will they last?

Store your cooked chicken fillets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for 3-4 days. Make sure they’ve cooled down completely before popping them in the fridge.

You can use them in salads, sandwiches, or reheated with a bit of sauce just make sure they're piping hot all the way through when reheating!

What's the best way to reheat these chicken fillets without drying them out?

Nobody wants dry reheated chicken, eh? The best way to avoid this is to add a bit of moisture during the reheating process. Try wrapping the chicken in some foil with a splash of chicken broth or water, or reheat in a pan with some sauce.

A microwave can be a bit harsh, so only use it as a last resort and do it in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

Can I grill these chicken fillets instead of pan-searing?

Yes, grilling is a great alternative! Ensure your grill is properly preheated to medium high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning and consider using a marinade for added flavor and moisture. You can also vary the recipe and make a grilled juicy chicken fillet meals recipe.