Buttermilk Herb Chicken: A Succulent and Flavorful Delight

Buttermilk Herb Chicken is a deliciously moist and flavorful dish that brings together the tanginess of buttermilk and the aromatic qualities of fresh herbs. The marinade tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy, while the combination of herbs adds a depth of flavor that is sure to impress. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade:
– 2 cups buttermilk
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. ###Preparation of the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, parsley, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until well blended.

2. ###Marinating the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the buttermilk herb marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

3. ###Cooking the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Discard the marinade.
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.

4. ###Baking the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet with the seared chicken to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is fully cooked through.

5. ###Serving:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.

Serve the Buttermilk Herb Chicken with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy!