Herb-Crusted Pan-Seared Chicken Breast
Juicy, tender chicken breasts coated in a savory blend of herbs and spices, then seared to a perfect golden-brown. A delicious and incredibly fast main course for any weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 14 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the chicken
- b.Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover with plastic wrap.
- c.Gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness of about 3/4 inch. This ensures even cooking.
- d.Pat the chicken completely dry with paper towels. This helps create a nice crust.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Season the chicken
- b.In a small bowl, mix together the dried oregano, thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- c.Rub this seasoning mixture evenly over all sides of each chicken breast.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sear the chicken
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large skillet (cast iron or stainless steel works best) over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- c.Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot pan, ensuring they don't touch.
- d.Cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving them, until a deep golden-brown crust forms.
- e.Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-7 minutes on the other side, or until cooked through.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Check for doneness and rest
- b.The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
- c.Transfer the cooked chicken to a clean cutting board.
- d.Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Garnish and serve
- b.Slice the chicken against the grain.
- c.Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best crust, make sure your pan is fully heated before adding the chicken.
- 2Don't overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each piece sears properly rather than steams.
- 3A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to check for doneness without drying out the chicken.
- 4Feel free to change up the herbs. Dried rosemary, basil, or an Italian seasoning blend also work wonderfully.
- 5Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's great for salads or sandwiches.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the spice blend for a kick of heat.
healthyHealthy
Serve with a large portion of steamed green beans and a lemon wedge instead of heavier sides.
quickQuick
Use thin-sliced chicken cutlets which will cook in just 2-3 minutes per side.
ketoKeto
This recipe is naturally keto-friendly. Serve with cauliflower rice or a zucchini noodle salad to complete the meal.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken breast is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Low in Carbohydrates
This recipe is naturally low-carb, making it a great choice for those following keto, low-carb, or diabetic-friendly diets.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Chicken provides important nutrients like Niacin, Vitamin B6, and Selenium, which support energy metabolism and immune health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a very healthy dish. Chicken breast is a great source of lean protein, and pan-searing with olive oil is a healthy cooking method. It's low in carbs and saturated fat.