Prepare to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a culinary masterpiece that will transport your taste buds straight to the vibrant streets of Turkey! This seared chicken recipe is not just a meal – it's a sensory experience that combines bold spices, expert cooking techniques, and mouthwatering flavors that will make your family and friends beg for seconds. With just a few simple ingredients and some professional cooking tips, you'll create restaurant-quality chicken that's crispy on the outside, incredibly juicy on the inside, and packed with authentic Turkish-inspired seasonings.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Turkish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove chicken breasts from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- Pat chicken breasts dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a perfect sear.
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a spice blend.
- Generously season both sides of each chicken breast with the spice mixture, pressing the seasoning gently into the meat to help it adhere.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until the oil is shimmering and just about to smoke.
- Carefully place seasoned chicken breasts into the hot pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded to allow proper searing.
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on the first side without moving, developing a golden-brown crust and creating a nice caramelized exterior.
- Flip chicken breasts and reduce heat to medium, cooking for an additional 6-7 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove chicken from pan and let rest on a cutting board for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist meat.
- Slice chicken against the grain and serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let chicken come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent dry, tough meat.
- Moisture Matters: Thoroughly pat chicken dry before seasoning. Excess moisture prevents that perfect golden-brown crust from forming.
- Spice Technique: Press the spice blend gently into the meat to help it adhere and create a more intense flavor profile.
- Pan Perfection: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan for the most even heat and best searing results.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give each chicken breast enough space in the pan to ensure proper searing and caramelization.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked chicken.
- Resting is Crucial: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking to redistribute juices, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 360kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 43g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
