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Safe and Delicious Chicken with Slightly Pink Center

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This recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken breasts with a slightly pink center that is completely safe to eat, using precise temperature control and simple ingredients.

Ingredients

  • Chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (6–8 ounces / 170–225 grams each)
  • Salt, kosher or sea salt (1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper, freshly ground (½ teaspoon)
  • Olive oil or avocado oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Garlic powder (optional, ½ teaspoon)
  • Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary (optional, 1 tablespoon chopped)
  • Butter (1 tablespoon)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels (about 2 minutes).
  2. Season both sides evenly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using (1 minute).
  3. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add the olive or avocado oil and let it warm for 30 seconds (3 minutes).
  4. Place chicken breasts in the pan, smooth side down first. Let them sear undisturbed for about 4–5 minutes until a deep golden crust forms.
  5. Flip the chicken using tongs and add the butter and fresh herbs to the pan. Spoon melted butter over the chicken to baste for extra flavor and moisture (3 minutes).
  6. Check the internal temperature with an instant-read thermometer; aim for around 155°F (68°C) (2 minutes).
  7. Remove the chicken from the pan and transfer to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 5–7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and temperature to rise to about 160°F (71°C).

Notes

Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature. Rest chicken for at least 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and temperature to rise to safe levels. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain heat and get a good sear. For thicker breasts, finish cooking in a 375°F (190°C) oven after searing.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken breast, juicy chicken, slightly pink chicken, safe chicken recipe, easy chicken recipe, quick chicken, cast iron chicken

Find it online: https://spoonette.com/safe-and-delicious-chicken-with-slightly-pink-center-easy-recipe-tips/