Paprika chicken
Paprika chicken is a quick and flavorful dish featuring seasoned chicken breasts seared to perfection. Enhanced with lemon juice, it makes for a tasty weeknight dinner.
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
1.50 lb chicken breasts2 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
Paprika chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients like chicken breasts, paprika, salt, black pepper, olive oil, and lemon juice, you can create a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love.
Instructions:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels. This ensures that the seasoning sticks better and the chicken sears nicely.
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts for consistent flavor.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it begins to shimmer. This typically takes about 1-2 minutes.
- Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the hot skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until a golden brown crust forms.
- Check for doneness by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast; the internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked through, drizzle the lemon juice over the chicken breasts in the skillet.
- Allow the chicken to cook for an additional minute to absorb the lemon flavor.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
- Serve the paprika chicken whole or sliced. Pair with your favorite side dishes such as salad, roasted vegetables, or rice.
Paprika chicken is an easy and flavorful dinner option that's sure to impress. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare a delicious and healthy meal in no time. Remember to follow the tips for the best results and enjoy this delightful dish with your favorite sides.
Paprika chicken FAQ:
Cook the paprika chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side. This will create a golden brown crust while ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken breast.
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.
If you don’t have lemon juice, you can substitute it with lime juice or a vinegar, such as apple cider or white wine vinegar, for a similar acidity.
A large skillet is recommended for cooking the paprika chicken. This allows enough space for the chicken breasts to sear properly without overcrowding.
Tips:
- To ensure even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before seasoning.
- For extra tenderness and flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it is fully cooked.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix.
- Pair this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition per serving
4 ServingsCalories 210kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 0.99g
Fiber 0.44g
Sugar 0.20g
Fat 8g
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