How to Sear & Bake Chicken

Sear the chicken in a pan before baking it in the oven.

Pan searing chicken gives it a crispy exterior while baking it the oven ensures a moist interior. Combine the two methods by searing the chicken in a pan, then transferring it to the oven to finish cooking. This meal takes little preparation, and can go from stove top to table in less than 25 minutes. While the chicken is baking in the oven, use the time to quickly saute vegetables to accompany the meat. If you like, you can marinate the chicken for a few hours beforehand with olive oil, herbs and spices. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Things You'll Need

• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Fresh herbs (optional)
• Garlic cloves (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat the olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Sprinkle each side of 2 chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet skin-side down. Cook until crisp and golden, about 4 minutes.

3. Flip chicken over and sear on the other side until golden brown, about 4 more minutes. If you wish, you can add fresh herbs and whole cloves of garlic to the pan at this time.

4. Remove the pan from heat and transfer to the oven. Bake until the juices from the chicken run clear, about 6 to 8 minutes.

References

• Food Network: Pan Seared Chicken Breast
• Epicurious: Pan-Seared Chicken with Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes