INGREDIENTS
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total)
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter or ghee
EQUIPMENT
Knife and cutting board
10-inch or larger skillet (not nonstick)
Timer
INSTRUCTIONS
Pat the chicken dry and season with salt and pepper. Thoroughly dry the chicken on all sides with paper towels. Season with the salt and pepper on all sides.
Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Heat the oil in a 10-inch or larger skillet, preferably straight-sided and not nonstick (cast iron is a great option), over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 3 minutes.
Carefully add the chicken to the hot pan and cook for 5 to 7 minutes. Swirl the pan just before adding the breasts to evenly distribute the oil. Add the chicken one at a time and do not touch, poke, or move the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes. If you try to turn the chicken and it feels stuck, it isn’t golden and crispy or ready to flip.
Flip the chicken and cook until it reaches 165°F, 5 to 7 minutes more. Flip the breasts over and add the butter or ghee right between them. Pick up the pan and give it a gentle swirl to distribute the melting butter. Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F, 5 to 7 minutes more.
Slice and serve. Transfer the chicken breasts to a plate or clean cutting board. Let rest for 3 minutes before slicing and serving.
