Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts with Cilantro-Lime Butter and Roasted Carrots
Servings: 4-6 people
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
Step 1: Roast the Carrots
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the chopped carrots with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until they're evenly coated.
- Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
Step 2: Prepare the Cilantro-Lime Butter
- In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, freshly squeezed lime juice, chopped cilantro, and grated ginger.
- Mix everything together until you get a smooth and creamy paste.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 3: Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and swirl it around.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Once the carrots are done roasting, let them cool slightly.
- Slice each chicken breast into thin strips.
- To serve, place a slice of pan-seared chicken on a plate, top it with a dollop of cilantro-lime butter, and serve alongside roasted carrots.
Notes:
- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some chopped fresh cilantro over the chicken and carrots before serving.
- You can adjust the amount of garlic and ginger to your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with 1 clove of garlic and reduce the ginger to 1/2 teaspoon.
- This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The cilantro-lime butter adds an extra layer of freshness and flavor to the dish!