Easy Pan Fried Chicken

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Pan-fried chicken is a simple and delicious way to prepare chicken with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. It’s quick, requires minimal ingredients, and works perfectly for a weeknight dinner. Here’s an easy recipe:

Easy Pan-Fried Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 cup flour (for dredging)
  • 3-4 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
  • 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra flavor)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps achieve a crispy exterior.
    • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
    • Lightly dredge each piece of chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.
  2. Heat the Pan:
    • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. If using butter, add it to the oil and let it melt, being careful not to let it burn.
  3. Fry the Chicken:
    • Once the oil is hot and shimmering, place the chicken breasts in the pan in a single layer (you may need to work in batches if your pan is smaller).
    • Cook for 5-6 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing a golden-brown crust to form.
    • Flip the chicken and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side until fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
    • If the chicken browns too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
  4. Rest and Serve:
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken tender.
    • Serve with lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pan-fried chicken goes well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a light salad.
  • You can also slice it up and add it to a sandwich, wrap, or salad for an easy meal.

Enjoy this quick and versatile pan-fried chicken! Let me know if you’d like a different version or additional flavor options.

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