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Spiced Pan-Seared Chicken Breast with Lemon Herb Sauce

This dish features chicken breasts sliced horizontally into thin cutlets, seared to a golden crust, and finished with a bright lemon herb sauce. The cooking process emphasizes a quick sear and a flavorful pan sauce, resulting in tender, juicy meat with a slightly crisp exterior and a vibrant finish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces chicken breasts preferably even thickness
  • 1 tbsp olive oil extra virgin preferred
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth for sauce
  • 1 each lemon for juice
  • a handful fresh herbs parsley, thyme, or basil, chopped
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika or sweet paprika
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • sharp knife
  • Heavy skillet
  • Tongs
  • measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and slice horizontally into two thin cutlets, then gently pound to even thickness if needed.
  2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides.
  3. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, and then carefully lay the chicken cutlets in the pan.
  4. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and firm to the touch, with no pink remaining in the center.
  5. Remove the cooked chicken and let it rest on a plate for about 5 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute.
  6. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring gently to avoid burning.
  7. Pour in white wine or chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, and simmer until the sauce reduces slightly and thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
  8. Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the sauce and stir in chopped herbs for a bright, fresh flavor.
  9. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon if needed.
  10. Slice the rested chicken into strips if desired, then spoon the warm sauce over the chicken and serve immediately.