perfect chicken breast

generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes while you prepare the pan. heat a skillet over medium heat and add just enough olive oil to coat the bottom. place the chicken breasts in the skillet with the presentation side down. apply a heavy weight on top, such as a cake pan with a cast-iron skillet inside, to ensure full contact and even browning. sear the chicken undisturbed for 3–4 minutes, until a deep, golden crust forms. remove the weight, flip the chicken, and add the butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme to the pan. as the butter melts, tilt the pan and continuously baste the chicken with the herb-infused butter until it is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°f. let the chicken rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing, to retain its juices and ensure maximum tenderness.