Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts (boneless and skinless)
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil or butter (optional)
- Seasonings or marinade of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Chicken**: Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture, which promotes better browning when cooking.
2. **Season the Chicken**: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. You can also add other seasonings or marinades if desired, such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or herbs.
3. **Preheat the Skillet or Grill**: Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a small amount of olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. If using a grill, make sure it's preheated to the appropriate temperature.
4. **Cook the Chicken**: Once the skillet or grill is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, depending on their thickness. Use tongs to flip the chicken breasts halfway through cooking.
5. **Check for Doneness**: The chicken breasts are cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) as measured with a meat thermometer. Make sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast to get an accurate reading.
6. **Rest the Chicken**: Once the chicken breasts are cooked through, remove them from the skillet or grill and transfer them to a plate. Let the chicken breasts rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicier chicken.
7. **Slice and Serve**: Use a sharp knife to slice the chicken breasts against the grain into thin slices. Serve the chicken breasts with your favorite side dishes, such as rice, vegetables, salads, or pasta.
Cooked chicken breasts can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and sandwiches to stir-fries and pasta. Experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods to create delicious and flavorful chicken dishes. Enjoy!