Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken breasts thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crisp skin.
- Generously season each piece all over with sea salt, pressing it into the skin and underside; let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to enhance flavor and skin crispness.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2-3 minutes, then add vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom evenly.
- Place the chicken breasts skin-side down in the hot skillet. Sear without moving for 5-7 minutes, until the skin turns deep golden brown and crackles softly as you press with tongs.
- Flip the chicken carefully using tongs and reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and herb sprigs to the pan, allowing the butter to melt and bubble around the chicken.
- Continue cooking the chicken for about 8-10 minutes, occasionally basting with the melted butter and juices, until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) and the meat feels firm but tender.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, keeping the skin crispy and the meat moist.
- While the chicken rests, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the meat and sprinkle with chopped herbs if desired.
- Carve the chicken breasts, ensuring the skin remains crackly and golden. Serve immediately, skin side up, for maximum crunch and flavor.
Notes
For extra crispiness, dust the chicken skin lightly with flour before searing. Resting is crucial to keep the meat juicy and the skin crispy. Finish with a squeeze of lemon to brighten the rich, savory flavors.
