Zesty Pan-Seared Chicken
A quick and easy pan-seared chicken breast recipe bursting with fresh lime, a hint of chili, and rich olive oil. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner, offering a vibrant taste with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes or to taste
- 2 tbsp lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil plus more for cooking
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) for even cooking.
- In a shallow dish, combine 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, 1 tsp salt, red pepper flakes, and black pepper.
- Add chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes at room temperature, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken breasts.
- Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C). Cooking time may vary based on thickness.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving.
- Season to taste with additional salt, red pepper flakes, lime juice, and a final drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if desired. Mix until combined, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken for up to 30 minutes. Ensure chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can also grill this chicken for a delicious alternative.