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Rosemary Garlic Skillet Chicken

Joy Brooks
A perfectly seared chicken breast infused with fresh rosemary and garlic, cooked using precise temperature control for juicy results every time.
Servings: 2 people
Course: Pan-Fried
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310 kcal
Prep Time : 30 minutes
Cook Time : 18 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (8-10 oz each) pounded to even 3/4" thickness
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 4 sprigs fresh rosemary 3-4" in length
  • 6 cloves garlic 3 minced, 3 whole but lightly crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chicken stock or white wine for deglazing

Method
 

  1. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even 3/4" thickness. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  2. In a shallow dish, combine olive oil, 1 teaspoon finely chopped rosemary (from one sprig), 3 minced garlic cloves, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken evenly and allow to rest at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
  3. Place cast iron skillet on medium-low heat and allow it to heat gradually for 5 minutes.
  4. Increase heat to medium-high. Add butter and allow it to melt and begin foaming. Immediately place chicken breasts presentation-side down in the pan.
  5. Cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes until a golden-brown crust forms.
  6. Turn chicken using tongs. Add remaining whole rosemary sprigs and lightly crushed garlic cloves around the chicken. Reduce heat to medium.
  7. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, occasionally tilting the pan and basting the chicken with the infused butter-oil mixture.
  8. Use an instant-read thermometer to verify chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) at its thickest point.
  9. Transfer chicken to a plate and tent loosely with foil. Allow to rest for 5 minutes.
  10. While chicken rests, add 2 tablespoons stock or wine to the skillet, scraping up browned bits. Allow to reduce by half, then drizzle over chicken before serving.

Note

For optimal browning, make sure chicken is thoroughly patted dry before adding to the pan.
Fresh rosemary is strongly preferred over dried for this recipe.
Listen to your cooking - a moderate, steady sizzle indicates perfect temperature.
Don't skip the resting period - it's crucial for maintaining juiciness.
Use a thermometer rather than cooking times for perfectly cooked chicken every time