Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a straightforward approach to preparing chicken breasts that are tender and full of flavor. The cast iron skillet provides excellent heat retention, promoting a perfect sear and even cooking. The addition of lemon zest and a finishing touch of butter adds brightness and richness, making this dish a delightful centerpiece for any meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried oregano
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tsp lemon zest (preferably from a wax-free lemon)
1 tbsp sunflower, canola, or avocado oil
Butter (a few slices)
Lemon slices, for serving

Directions

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix together the onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Zest the lemon and sprinkle the zest over the seasoned chicken breasts.
Heat the oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
During the last minute of cooking, add the butter slices to the skillet and allow them to melt, basting the chicken with the melted butter.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve with lemon slices for added brightness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes

Variations

Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the seasoning mix for added flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy twist.
Citrus Twist: Use lime zest instead of lemon for a different citrus profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the chicken from drying out.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).

Can I use bone-in chicken breasts?

Yes, but bone-in breasts will require a longer cooking time.

Can I use a different type of skillet?

While a cast iron skillet is ideal for heat retention, you can use a stainless steel or non-stick skillet as alternatives.

How can I prevent the chicken from sticking to the skillet?

Ensure the skillet is preheated and add enough oil to coat the bottom before placing the chicken in.

Can I marinate the chicken beforehand?

Yes, marinating the chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours can enhance flavor and tenderness.

Is this recipe suitable for a keto diet?

Yes, this recipe is low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it suitable for a keto diet.

Can I cook multiple chicken breasts at once?

Yes, but avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure even cooking.

How do I keep the chicken moist?

Avoid overcooking and let the chicken rest after cooking to retain its juices.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

It’s best to thaw chicken breasts before cooking to ensure even cooking.

What can I serve with cast iron chicken breasts?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken breasts in a cast iron skillet is a simple and effective method to achieve a juicy and flavorful meal. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavor to your liking. Whether served with sides or incorporated into other dishes, this cast iron chicken breast recipe is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Juicy Cast Iron Skillet Chicken Breast

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 2 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Cast Iron Chicken Breast recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a perfectly seared exterior, all thanks to the magic of a cast iron skillet. The lemon zest and butter finish add a burst of freshness and richness, making this dish simple, yet elegant. It’s an ideal option for a quick, weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal for special occasions.

Instructions

Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, sea salt, and black pepper.
Sprinkle the seasoning evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts.
Zest the lemon and sprinkle the zest over the seasoned chicken.
Heat the oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
In the last minute of cooking, add butter slices to the skillet and let them melt, basting the chicken with the butter.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve with lemon slices for a fresh finishing touch.

Notes

Variations: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor, or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick. Try lime zest instead of lemon for a citrus twist.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to retain moisture.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Poultry
Method: Cast Iron Skillet
Cuisine: American