Garlic Pepper Rub Chicken Breast Recipe
Great recipe for a chicken breast with garlic pepper rub, perfect for salads or dinner. It is simple and quick recipe to make in your kitchen using basic ingredients.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
In this recipe, we use the most basic ingredients that most people already have in their kitchen. The salt, pepper, and garlic create an aromatic and delicious rub that complements the chicken's flavor. The recipe uses chicken breast, which is cooked for about 6-7 minutes on each side. I used a good non-stick, high-quality pan, which makes the cooking a lot easier since the chicken obviously doesn't stick to the pan at all, despite the small amount of oil used.
I consider this recipe one of my go-to options since it's very quick to make, easy to clean, and healthy. The primary ingredient of this recipe is the chicken breast, which is known for being a good source of protein.
While the finished dish is brown on the outside, it leaves the inside of the chicken breast moist and flavorful. Try this recipe for a quick and healthy meal you can make at home!
Tips and Tricks
- Use a High-Quality Nonstick Skillet: A high-quality nonstick skillet allows you to use very little olive oil to cook the chicken, preventing it from sticking and making cleanup easier.
- Preheat the Pan: Ensure the pan is properly preheated before adding the chicken. This helps in achieving a good sear and locks in the juices.
- Pat the Chicken Dry: Before seasoning, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and promotes even browning.
- Season Generously: Don't be afraid to season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and garlic. These basic ingredients create a flavorful rub that enhances the chicken's natural taste.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overcooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more moist and flavorful.
- Slice Against the Grain: When cutting the chicken, slice against the grain. This makes the meat more tender and easier to chew.
- Add Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary during the last minute of cooking or as a garnish.
- Experiment with Marinades: If you have extra time, marinate the chicken breast in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and your favorite herbs and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This adds additional flavor and tenderness.
- Use a Lid: If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider covering the pan with a lid for the last few minutes of cooking. This helps cook the chicken evenly without drying it out.
Ingredients
- 1 1/3 pound chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 1/5 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
-
Preheat pan on medium high heat.
-
Prepare chicken by washing it with regular tap water.
-
In a separate bowl, combine the salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
-
Rub the salt, pepper, and garlic powder mixture to the chicken. Flip and do the same to the other side of the chicken for an even flavor.
-
When pan is heated, add olive oil.
*In this recipe, I added the oil right before adding the chicken, so the oil won't smoke and burn. *
-
Add chicken. Cook each side for 6-7 minutes. Check with the meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 74°C (165°F).
-
Remove from heat. If preferred, cut into serving size and enjoy!
In conclusion, this easy garlic chicken breast recipe is a fantastic option for anyone looking to prepare a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a flavorful dish that is sure to impress. By following the tips and tricks provided, you'll ensure that your chicken is perfectly cooked, moist, and bursting with flavor. Whether you're cooking for yourself or for family and friends, this recipe is a reliable go-to that you'll want to make again and again. Enjoy the simplicity and taste of this delightful chicken dish!