This Pan-Fried Chicken Breast with Garlic and Thyme is a simple yet flavorful recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a delightful meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch, this dish showcases tender chicken breasts seasoned with garlic, thyme, and black pepper, then pan-fried to perfection. With just a few key ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is ideal for those who want a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The addition of a touch of yogurt enhances the chicken’s moisture and adds a subtle tang, while the flour creates a light, crispy coating. Whether served with a side of vegetables, over a bed of rice, or alongside a fresh salad, this dish offers a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 700 g (about 1.5 pounds) chicken breast
- 1 tbsp yogurt
- Thyme (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tbsp flour
- Olive oil (for frying)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Peel and finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic clove.
- Cut the chicken breasts into thin, even slices to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the egg, salt, and yogurt. Stir well until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the mixture.
- Place the chicken slices into the bowl and toss to coat them thoroughly with the marinade. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Season the Chicken:
- After marinating, remove the chicken slices from the bowl and shake off any excess marinade.
- Season the chicken with thyme and black pepper. If you prefer, you can use fresh thyme for a more vibrant flavor or dried thyme if that’s what you have on hand.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Place the flour in a shallow dish or plate.
- Dredge each chicken slice in the flour, ensuring it is coated evenly. This will help create a light, crispy exterior when fried.
- Fry the Chicken:
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chicken slices to the skillet. Cook for approximately 3 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of the chicken slices.
- Serve:
- Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the chicken hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or over a bed of rice.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure Even Cooking: For even cooking, try to slice the chicken breasts into uniform pieces. This helps them cook evenly and prevents some pieces from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
- Oil Temperature: Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a crispy texture. If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken may become greasy rather than crispy.
- Do Not Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary to ensure each piece has enough space to cook properly and get a golden crust.
Storage:
- In the Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- In the Freezer: The cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm up in a skillet over medium heat to retain its crispy texture.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, assuming 4 servings):
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
FAQs:
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Yes, you can use chicken thighs if you prefer. Adjust the cooking time as thighs may take slightly longer to cook than breasts.
- Is it necessary to use yogurt in the marinade? The yogurt adds moisture and a slight tang, but if you prefer, you can skip it and just use the egg and seasonings.
- Can I use other herbs instead of thyme? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil to suit your taste preferences.
- What side dishes go well with this chicken? This chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a serving of rice or quinoa.
Conclusion: This Pan-Fried Chicken Breast with Garlic and Thyme is a fantastic addition to any meal rotation, offering a quick and delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful chicken. The simple ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, making it suitable for both everyday dining and special occasions. With its crispy coating and savory seasonings, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it out and enjoy the delightful taste and ease of preparation that this meal has to offer.