Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Start by taking the chicken breasts and patting them dry with paper towels. This is important for achieving a good sear. Season both sides with sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they achieve a golden color and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt, scraping up any tasty bits left from the chicken. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook this for about a minute until fragrant but be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 4: Create the Flour Mixture
- Sprinkle the flour over the butter and garlic mixture. Stir it to combine and cook for about 1-2 minutes. This will create a roux that thickens the sauce.
Step 5: Add Chicken Broth
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring constantly. This will help to loosen the roux and create a smooth sauce. Let it cook for another couple of minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Combine the Chicken with the Sauce
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, turning them to coat well in the butter sauce. At this point, you can also sprinkle in some fresh parsley for added flavor. Let it simmer for a few more moments to ensure the chicken is heated through.
Step 7: Serve
- Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and drizzle generously with the butter sauce. Serve with lemon wedges, giving each portion a fresh squeeze as this brightens the dish beautifully.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever you can, fresh garlic and herbs will elevate the flavor significantly.
- Check the Internal Temperature: Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If cooking multiple chicken breasts, do it in batches to ensure they sear properly.
- Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken sit for a few minutes after cooking helps retain its juices.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs like basil or oregano for a different flavor profile.
