Pan-Seared Chicken Breast Tender
A simple and delicious pan-seared chicken breast tender recipe that is juicy on the inside with a golden, crispy exterior. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2
Ingredients
8 chicken breast tenders (about 1 pound)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Instructions
Pat the chicken breast tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken tenders.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Add the chicken tenders to the skillet in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes without moving them, until the underside is golden brown.
Flip the chicken tenders and add the butter and fresh thyme leaves to the skillet.
Cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, spooning the melted butter and thyme over the chicken as it cooks, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and let them rest for 3 minutes before serving.