Delicious Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe uses a combination of herbs and a secret ingredient that ensures the chicken breasts remain moist and tender. It's an easy-to-make recipe, with minimal preparation required, and the result is a dish so flavorful that it practically melts in your mouth. It's versatile enough to pair with various sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons butter

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

3. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, ensuring they're evenly coated. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mix generously over the chicken.

4. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the butter and let it melt.

5. Sear the chicken breasts in the skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown.

6. Once both sides are seared, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken.

7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

8. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add a creamy sauce: After cooking the chicken, you can create a simple creamy sauce by adding heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic to the skillet and simmering it until thickened.

• Spicy twist: Add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix to give the chicken a spicy kick.

• Herb variations: Try switching out the oregano for thyme, rosemary, or basil to experiment with different flavors.

• Marinate the chicken: For an even more tender result, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix and lemon juice for an hour before cooking.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat to prevent it from drying out. If reheating in a skillet, add a little butter or oil to help keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs. However, chicken thighs may require slightly longer cooking time due to their higher fat content.

2. How can I ensure my chicken stays juicy?

The key is to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) but not more than that.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving.

4. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

It’s best to thaw frozen chicken breasts before cooking for even cooking results. If using frozen, increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.

5. What sides pair well with this chicken?

This chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa.

6. Can I cook this recipe on the stove entirely without the oven?

Yes, you can cook it entirely on the stove. Sear the chicken as instructed, then lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let the chicken cook through for 15-20 minutes.

7. Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure that the seasoning ingredients (such as garlic powder) don't contain any added gluten.

8. How do I prevent the chicken from being dry?

Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken. Using a meat thermometer can help. Let the chicken rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.

9. Can I grill the chicken instead of using a skillet?

Yes, you can grill the chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high and cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

10. Can I use this recipe for chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken tenders instead of breasts. They will cook much faster, so reduce the cooking time by about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

This Melt In Your Mouth Chicken Breast recipe is the perfect addition to your dinner rotation. With its juicy, tender texture and simple seasoning, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to serve at a special gathering, this recipe is easy to make and absolutely delicious!