Cast Iron Chicken Breast
The recipe for the “Perfect Cast Iron Chicken Breast” is all about making juicy, tender chicken using a cast iron skillet. Cooking chicken breast can be tricky, often resulting in dryness or toughness, but this method helps avoid those common mistakes. A cast iron skillet is a fantastic cooking tool that can be used year-round, even without a grill. It’s particularly useful for meal prepping healthy, lean protein for the family. You can also check recipe of Crispy Fish Sliders.
Ingredients Needed for Cast Iron Chicken Breast
- Chicken Breasts: Use skinless or skin-on chicken breasts. If using boneless chicken thighs, they will take a few extra minutes to cook.
- Olive Oil: 1-2 tablespoons. This prevents sticking and helps form a golden crust. You can also use vegetable or canola oil.
- Butter: 1-2 tablespoons. This adds richness and flavor to the chicken.
- Italian Seasonings: 1-2 teaspoons. This blend includes dried basil, rosemary, marjoram, oregano, and thyme. You can make your own or use a store-bought mix.
- Kosher Salt: 1 teaspoon and Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon. These enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon. This adds a lovely smoky flavor to the chicken.
Variations
This recipe serves as a guide for cooking chicken, and the seasoning options are nearly limitless! While I usually use an Italian flavor profile with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano, here are some of my favorite combinations:
- Garam Masala: Mix with thyme, turmeric, salt, and pepper for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Smoky Paprika Blend: Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a rich, smoky taste.
- Spicy Chili Blend: Use chili powder, cumin, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a bit of heat and depth.
- Sweet and Spicy Combo: Mix chili powder, paprika, brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper for a sweet and savory flavor.
Step by Step Process to Make Juicy Cast Iron Chicken Breast
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter
In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. This garlic herb butter can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks, so you can make it ahead of time if you like!
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps to cook the chicken quickly and keep it juicy.
Step 3: Make the Spice Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. This blend will add flavor and a bit of heat to the chicken.
Step 4: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This step is important as it helps the spice mixture stick better and promotes a good sear. Season both sides of the chicken liberally with the spice mixture you just prepared.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken
Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add about 1 tablespoon of oil to coat the bottom of the pan. Once the oil is hot, sear the chicken breasts on one side for about 5 minutes until they develop a nice crust. After that, flip the chicken breasts over.
Step 6: Bake the Chicken
Immediately transfer the cast iron skillet to your preheated oven. Bake at 425°F for 10-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken breasts. Thinner breasts may take only 5-10 minutes, while thicker ones can take 15-20 minutes. Use an instant thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F. However, you can pull it out around 160-162°F since it will continue cooking while resting.
Step 7: Finish and Rest the Chicken
Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and top each breast with about 1 tablespoon of the garlic herb butter. Allow the chicken to rest for at least 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, ensuring that each slice is juicy and flavorful.
FAQ’S
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts. Just note that they will take a few extra minutes to cook through.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Chicken should be cooked to 165°F, but you can remove it from the oven at 160-162°F since it will continue cooking while resting.
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?
You can use any oven-safe skillet, such as stainless steel, that can go from stovetop to oven. Just make sure it’s well-prepared to prevent sticking.
How should I store leftover chicken?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Can I make the garlic herb butter ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic herb butter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
What seasonings can I use?
Feel free to experiment with different spices! You can use blends like Italian seasoning, garam masala, or even a spicy chili mix to suit your taste.
Why is it important to let the chicken rest?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful when you slice into it.
Can I add vegetables to the skillet?
Yes, you can add vegetables to the skillet when you sear the chicken or during the baking process. Just make sure they are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
How long should I let the chicken come to room temperature before cooking?
Remove the chicken from the fridge about 20 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What if my chicken sticks to the pan?
Ensure your skillet is well-seasoned and hot before adding the chicken. If it sticks, give it a little more time; it will release naturally when a proper crust has formed.