Are you a fan of crispy, golden-brown chicken breasts? If so, you’ve probably asked yourself: how long to pan sear chicken breast? This is an important question, as the amount of time it takes to pan sear chicken breast can be the difference between a juicy, succulent meal or a tough, overcooked disaster.
The answer to this question depends on several factors, such as the size of the chicken breast and the heat of the pan. However, the general rule of thumb is that it takes around 10 minutes to pan sear chicken breast. This includes the time it takes to get the pan hot enough, as well as the time it takes to cook the chicken breast.
Step-by-Step Guide to Pan Searing Chicken Breast
The best way to ensure your chicken breast is cooked to perfection is to follow a step-by-step guide. Here’s how you can pan sear chicken breast in 10 minutes:
1. Start by prepping the chicken. Take a boneless, skinless chicken breast and pat it dry with a paper towel. Season it with salt and pepper, as well as any other spices or herbs you prefer.
2. Heat up a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and let it heat for about 30 seconds.
3. Carefully add the chicken breast to the pan. Let it cook for 5 minutes, or until the bottom is golden brown. Flip the chicken breast and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This step is essential, as it allows the chicken to finish cooking and the juices to redistribute.
Tips for Perfectly Pan Seared Chicken Breast
Follow these tips to ensure your chicken breast turns out perfectly every time:
• Use a thermometer. The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use a thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken breast to check the internal temperature. It should read 165°F (74°C).
• Cut the chicken into smaller pieces. If you’re short on time and need the chicken to cook faster, try cutting the chicken into smaller pieces. This will reduce the cooking time significantly.
• Don’t move the chicken too much. Let the chicken cook for at least 5 minutes before flipping it. Moving the chicken too much will cause it to stick to the pan and won’t give you that nice golden-brown color.
• Add some flavor. A dash of white wine, butter, or herbs can add a lot of flavor to your dish. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and find what works best for you.
Safety Tips for Cooking Chicken
It’s important to follow proper food safety guidelines when cooking chicken. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
• Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked chicken. This will help prevent cross-contamination.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling raw chicken. This will help reduce the risk of food-borne illnesses.
• Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will ensure it is cooked through and safe to eat.
• Refrigerate any leftovers within two hours. This will help prevent bacteria from forming on your food.
Conclusion
Now that you know how long to pan sear chicken breast, you can make a delicious, juicy meal in no time. Just remember to follow the steps and tips outlined above, as well as practice proper food safety techniques. With a bit of practice, you’ll be a master of pan searing chicken breast in no time!