Add Chicken Recipe
Make Add Chicken Recipe in just 30m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Chicken preparation
Pan sauce (optional, to finish)
Method
Chicken preparation
- 1
Pound or halve the chicken
If breasts are thick, place each between plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin to an even thickness about 1/2 inch, or slice horizontally to make cutlets. This ensures even cooking.
- 2
Season
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub both sides with olive oil, then season evenly with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- 3
Cook
Heat a large skillet (preferably heavy-bottomed or nonstick) over medium-high heat until hot. Add a small slick of olive oil if pan is dry. Add chicken pieces in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook without moving for 4–5 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. Flip and reduce heat to medium. Cook another 3–5 minutes until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C) or juices run clear. Total time depends on thickness.
- 4
Rest
Transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest 5 minutes before slicing. Resting preserves juiciness and allows carryover cooking to finish.
Pan sauce (optional, to finish)
- 5
Deglaze
With the heat on medium, return the skillet to the stove if you removed it. Add 1/4 cup chicken stock to the hot pan to deglaze, scraping up browned bits with a wooden spoon—this adds flavor.
- 6
Finish sauce
Stir in 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Swirl until butter melts and sauce is glossy and slightly reduced, about 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt or pepper if needed.
- 7