perfect seared chicken breasts

Serves 2

Prep Time: 3 minutes

Cook Time: 13 to 19 minutes

Total Time: 16 to 22 minutes

• 2 portions (5 ounces each) skinless boneless chicken breasts
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cooking fat

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Season the chicken breasts evenly on both sides with the salt and pepper. In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the cooking fat over medium-high heat, swirling to coat the bottom of the pan. When the fat is hot, place the chicken top (rounded) side down in the pan and sear for 3 to 4 minutes. Your chicken should pull off the pan easily once you have a proper sear. Using tongs, turn the chicken over, then put the entire pan in the oven to finish cooking.

Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. Be sure to use a meat thermometer as you learn this technique. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

✪Pro Tip If you don’t have an oven-safe pan, transfer the seared chicken to a foil-lined baking pan before placing in the oven.