How To Marinate Chicken Breast On Pan

Marinating Chicken Breast for the Perfect Pan-Seared Dish

When it comes to cooking a delicious and juicy chicken breast on the pan, marinating the meat is key. A good marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat, resulting in a more succulent and tasty dish. If you’re wondering how to marinate chicken breast for pan-searing, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a simple guide to help you achieve the perfect marinated chicken breast on the pan.

Choose the Right Marinade

Before you start marinating your chicken breast, it’s important to choose the right marinade. You can opt for a store-bought marinade or create your own using a combination of oil, acid (such as citrus juice or vinegar), and flavorings like herbs, spices, and aromatics. Popular marinade ingredients include:

• Garlic
• Onion
• Herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano)
• Citrus juice (lemon, lime, or orange)
• Soy sauce
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Feel free to get creative with your marinade ingredients, but be mindful of the balance of flavors to ensure a well-rounded taste.

Prepare the Chicken Breast

Once you have your marinade ready, it’s time to prepare the chicken breast. Start by rinsing the chicken breast under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. This will help the marinade to adhere to the surface of the meat more effectively. If the chicken breast is particularly thick, consider using a meat mallet to pound it to an even thickness. This will help the chicken cook more evenly on the pan.

Marinate the Chicken

Place the prepared chicken breast in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over it, ensuring that the meat is fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but preferably for 2-4 hours. Marinating the chicken for an extended period allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Preheat the Pan

When you’re ready to cook the marinated chicken breast, preheat a pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan to prevent the chicken from sticking and to help achieve a golden-brown crust on the outside of the meat.

Cook the Chicken Breast

Once the pan is hot, remove the chicken breast from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Place the chicken in the pan and cook it for approximately 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is fully cooked.

Let it Rest

After cooking, remove the chicken breast from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. Allowing the meat to rest helps to redistribute the juices, resulting in a more tender and juicy chicken breast.

There you have it – a simple guide to marinating chicken breast for pan-searing. With the right marinade and cooking technique, you can achieve a flavorful and succulent chicken dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different marinade ingredients and enjoy creating delicious pan-seared chicken breast in your own kitchen!