Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to create the herb rub.
- Step 2: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or Ziploc bag and pour the garlic herb mixture over them, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated on all sides. Allow to marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator).
- Step 3: Heat a large skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the coated chicken breasts into the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Step 4: Sear the chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust develops. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and continue cooking for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 5: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing or serving whole.
Notes
- Leftovers keep beautifully; store cooked, cooled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- For best results when reheating leftovers, slice the chicken and warm briefly in a covered skillet with a tablespoon of water or broth to maintain moisture.
- Elevate this "dinner" by serving alongside a light lemon butter pasta or a hearty medley of roasted root vegetables.
- The 5-minute resting period is essential; loosely tent the finished chicken with foil immediately after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Chicken Breast (approx. 6 oz cooked) with 1/4 Cup Vegetables
- Calories: 460
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 3g